Diagnosis for a patient with the following CBC findings
What is the most likely diagnosis for a patient with the following CBC findings? WBC: 8.8 103/l; RBC: 3.01 103/l; Hgb: 10.3 g/dL; Hct: 32.2%; MCV: 74 fL; MCHC: 28.3 g/dL; Plt: 400 103/l; RDW: 18.4%; Reticulocytes: 2.1%.
Identify which anemia is the patient experiencing, which tests should be ordered and what type of treatment should be followed.
Sample Solution
Analyzing the CBC Results
Diagnosis:
Based on the CBC results, the patient is likely experiencing Iron Deficiency Anemia.
Key Indicators:
- Low Hemoglobin and Hematocrit: These indicate reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
- Low MCV: This suggests microcytic anemia, a condition where red blood cells are smaller than normal.
- Elevated RDW: This indicates variability in red blood cell size, often seen in iron deficiency anemia.
Additional Tests to Consider:
- Serum Ferritin: To assess iron stores.
- Serum Iron: To measure the amount of iron in the blood.
- Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): To evaluate the capacity of transferrin to bind iron.
- Vitamin B12 and Folate Levels: To rule out other types of anemia.
Treatment:
- Iron Supplementation: Oral iron supplements are the first-line treatment for iron deficiency anemia.
- Dietary Modifications: Encouraging a diet rich in iron-rich foods, such as red meat, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals.
- Addressing Underlying Causes: If there's an underlying cause for iron deficiency, such as chronic blood loss or malabsorption, it should be addressed.
- Monitoring: Regular blood tests to monitor the response to treatment and assess iron status.