In a patient with megaloblastic anemia, why might serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and indirect bilirubin be elevated?
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Correct answer: Ineffective erythropoiesis and intramedullary destruction of RBC precursors
Megaloblastic anemia is characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis. The destruction of fragile megaloblastic precursors within the bone marrow releases LDH and hemoglobin (which breaks down into indirect bilirubin) into the plasma.
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