Low MCV indicates a hypochromic anemia; which condition is most likely?

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Multiple Choice

Low MCV indicates a hypochromic anemia; which condition is most likely?

Low MCV with hypochromia points to microcytic, iron-deficient red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia is the classic cause of hypochromic, microcytic anemia because insufficient iron limits hemoglobin synthesis, producing smaller, paler RBCs. Sickle cell anemia usually shows normocytic indices and hemoglobin S-related changes rather than microcytosis; polycythemia vera involves an increased RBC mass rather than anemia; acute leukemia can cause anemia but indices are not characteristically microcytic and hypochromic. So the pattern most consistent with low MCV and hypochromia is iron deficiency anemia.

Low MCV with hypochromia points to microcytic, iron-deficient red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia is the classic cause of hypochromic, microcytic anemia because insufficient iron limits hemoglobin synthesis, producing smaller, paler RBCs. Sickle cell anemia usually shows normocytic indices and hemoglobin S-related changes rather than microcytosis; polycythemia vera involves an increased RBC mass rather than anemia; acute leukemia can cause anemia but indices are not characteristically microcytic and hypochromic. So the pattern most consistent with low MCV and hypochromia is iron deficiency anemia.

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