Which of the following descriptions best characterizes the peripheral blood smear findings in established iron deficiency anemia?
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Correct answer: Microcytic, hypochromic cells with increased 'pencil' cells
Established iron deficiency results in microcytic (small) and hypochromic (pale) red blood cells due to impaired hemoglobin synthesis. 'Pencil cells' (elongated poikilocytes) are a characteristic, though non-specific, finding on the smear.
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