03-27-2006, 03:50 PM
A 25-year-old asymptomatic African American woman has had a mild microcytic anemia since early childhood. She has a normal menstrual history. Physical examination is normal. Laboratory studies show a mild microcytic anemia and decreased hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct); however, the red blood cell count (RBC) is increased. The hemoglobin electrophoresis is normal. Serum ferritin is normal. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
A. Iron deficiency
B. Sickle cell trait
C. Sideroblastic anemia
D. α-Thalassemia
E. β-Thalassemia
A. Iron deficiency
B. Sickle cell trait
C. Sideroblastic anemia
D. α-Thalassemia
E. β-Thalassemia