Hematology Flashcards
5% of the EORE Blueprint
What is the most common type of microcytic, hypochromic anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia
Which form of pica is highly specific for iron deficiency anemia?
Pagophagia, pica for ice
What type of anemia is associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Macrocytic Anemia
What is a classic neurological symptom associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Peripheral neuropathy, especially paresthesia or numbness in the hands and feet (stocking-glove parathesias)
Which blood marker can be elevated in Vitamin B12 deficiency due to impaired DNA synthesis?
Elevated methylmalonic acid (MMA) and homocysteine levels
What is the most common cause of Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Which GI condition can lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Pernicious anemia, due to a lack of intrinsic factor required for B12 absorption
Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or gastric bypass surgery
GI conditions can lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency due to malabsorption
A 55-year-old male with a history of chronic alcohol use presents with fatigue and tingling in his legs. Lab results reveal macrocytic anemia, with an MCV of 115 fL and low Vitamin B12 levels. He is started on intramuscular Vitamin B12 injections. What is the most important factor to monitor in the early phase of treatment?
A) Serum calcium
B) Potassium levels
C) Vitamin D
D) Blood glucose levels
Potassium Levels
Rapid cell turnover after initiation of Vitamin B12 therapy can lead to hypokalemia due to increased demand for potassium during hematopoiesis
A 70-year-old woman presents with fatigue, glossitis, and difficulty with balance. Laboratory tests reveal macrocytic anemia and low Vitamin B12 levels. Anti-intrinsic factor antibodies are positive. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Crohn’s disease
B) Celiac disease
C) Pernicious anemia
D) Hypothyroidism
Pernicious anemia
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder where intrinsic factor is deficient or absent, leading to impaired absorption of Vitamin B12. Positive anti-intrinsic factor antibodies confirm the diagnosis
A 45-year-old vegan presents for a routine check-up. She reports no health concerns but has been on a strict vegan diet for the past five years. Her laboratory studies show a macrocytic anemia with a low Vitamin B12 level. What is the most likely cause of her Vitamin B12 deficiency?
A) Decreased intake
B) Pernicious anemia
C) Celiac disease
D) Chronic kidney disease
Decreased intake
Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products, and strict vegans are at risk of developing deficiency due to lack of dietary intake of B12
A patient presents with cognitive decline, irritability, and mood changes. He has a history of gastric bypass surgery two years ago. His labs reveal macrocytic anemia with a Vitamin B12 level of 80 pg/mL (normal: 200-900 pg/mL). Which of the following mechanisms is most likely responsible for his symptoms?
A) Impaired intrinsic factor production
B) Dietary deficiency
C) Renal insufficiency
D) Increased B12 excretion
Impaired intrinsic factor production
