A peripheral blood smear shows 'Schistocytes' (fragmented red cells). This finding is most suggestive of which anemia classification?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA)
Schistocytes result from mechanical shearing of RBCs as they pass through fibrin thrombi in small vessels. This is a hallmark of microangiopathic hemolytic anemias, such as TTP or DIC.
Keep practicing
More Anemia Classification questions
- In the classification of microcytic anemias, which condition is characterized by a defect in globin chain synthesis?
- A patient with chronic rheumatoid arthritis develops anemia. Lab results show a low TIBC and high Serum Ferritin. This fits the profile of:
- Which finding on a peripheral smear would help classify an anemia as 'Hereditary Spherocytosis'?
- What is the primary classification for an anemia caused by acute, massive hemorrhage within the first few hours?
- Which of the following mechanisms classifies G6PD deficiency as an anemia?
- Basophilic stippling of red blood cells is most classically associated with which type of microcytic anemia?