Study the blood picture and indices given for a 42 year old patient; use the information given to answer the questions below; WBC 10.5 %NEU 70LYM 20MON 3.5EOS 1.5BAS 5.0RBC 2.2HGB 9.0g/dlHCT 27%MCV 122.7 (H)MCH 40.9 (H)
Interpret the Complete blood count report 1 markGive evidence for the answer above? (any 2)- 1 mark What clinical symptoms would be found in this patient? (Any 2) 1markWhat clinical signs would be found in this patient? (Any 2) 1markHow would you further investigate this patient? (Any 2) 1 marks
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Oct 31, 2023
1. Interpretation of the Complete Blood Count (CBC) report: - The patient has a low red blood cell count (RBC) of 2.2 million cells per microliter, indicating anemia. - The hemoglobin (HGB) level is 9.0 g/dl, which is below the normal range, further supporting the diagnosis of anemia. - The hematocrit (HCT) level is 27%, also below the normal range, confirming the presence of anemia. - The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is significantly elevated at 122.7 fL, indicating macrocytic anemia. - The mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is also elevated at 40.9 pg, supporting the diagnosis of macrocytic anemia.
2. Evidence for the interpretation above: - The low RBC count, HGB level, and HCT level indicate a decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, which is characteristic of anemia. - The elevated MCV and MCH values suggest larger than normal red blood cells, which is consistent with macrocytic anemia.
3. Clinical symptoms that may be found in this patient: - Fatigue and weakness: Anemia can lead to a reduced supply of oxygen to the body's tissues, resulting in feelings of tiredness and weakness. - Shortness of breath: Decreased oxygen-carrying capacity can cause difficulty in breathing, especially during physical exertion.
4. Clinical signs that may be found in this patient: - Pale skin and mucous membranes: Anemia can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to paleness of the skin and mucous membranes. - Rapid heart rate (tachycardia): The body compensates for the decreased oxygen supply by increasing the heart rate.
5. Further investigation for this patient: - Iron studies: To determine the cause of the anemia, it is important to assess iron levels, as iron deficiency is a common cause of anemia. - Vitamin B12 and folate levels: Macrocytic anemia can be caused by deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate, so measuring their levels can help identify the underlying cause.