The presence of 'Howell-Jolly bodies' in a megaloblastic patient typically indicates:
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Correct answer: Splenic dysfunction or nuclear remnants
Howell-Jolly bodies are small nuclear DNA remnants. In megaloblastic anemia, they occur because the disordered maturation of the nucleus prevents its complete expulsion during red cell development.
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More Megaloblastic Anemia questions
- What is the expected bone marrow appearance in a patient with megaloblastic anemia?
- Which of the following parasitic infections is classically associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency?
- In a patient with megaloblastic anemia, why might serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and indirect bilirubin be elevated?
- Which specific antibody test is the most specific (though not most sensitive) for Pernicious Anemia?
- Which of the following describes the 'pancytopenia' often seen in severe megaloblastic anemia?
- What is the 'Schilling test' historically used to evaluate?