A low PCV with normal MCV and MCHC indicates what?

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Multiple Choice

A low PCV with normal MCV and MCHC indicates what?

Explanation:
A low PCV indicates anemia, and normal MCV and MCHC mean the red cells are still the normal size and hemoglobin content (normocytic, normochromic). When the bone marrow isn’t producing an increased number of new red blood cells in response to the anemia, you have a non-regenerative pattern. In regenerative (responsive) anemia, the marrow releases more reticulocytes, which are larger and can raise the MCV, and you’d see evidence of reticulocytosis. Iron deficiency tends to cause microcytosis and hypochromia (lower MCV and MCHC), not normal values. So the combination described points to non-regenerative anemia due to inadequate marrow production.

A low PCV indicates anemia, and normal MCV and MCHC mean the red cells are still the normal size and hemoglobin content (normocytic, normochromic). When the bone marrow isn’t producing an increased number of new red blood cells in response to the anemia, you have a non-regenerative pattern. In regenerative (responsive) anemia, the marrow releases more reticulocytes, which are larger and can raise the MCV, and you’d see evidence of reticulocytosis. Iron deficiency tends to cause microcytosis and hypochromia (lower MCV and MCHC), not normal values. So the combination described points to non-regenerative anemia due to inadequate marrow production.

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