Iron Deficiency Anemia · Pathology

Why is iron deficiency anemia associated with 'Hypochromia'?

  1. Because iron itself is a blue-staining mineral
  2. Low hemoglobin reduces cytoplasmic pink color
  3. The cells are too large to absorb the eosin stain
  4. The cell membrane becomes thicker and more opaque
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Correct answer: Low hemoglobin reduces cytoplasmic pink color

Hypochromia refers to the increased area of central pallor in red blood cells. Since hemoglobin is the pigment that gives RBCs their red color, a reduction in hemoglobin concentration per cell leads to a paler appearance under the microscope.

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