What is the primary difference between normocytic and microcytic anemia in terms of red blood cell size?
A
Normocytic anemia has larger red blood cells, while microcytic anemia has smaller red blood cells
B
Normocytic anemia has smaller red blood cells, while microcytic anemia has larger red blood cells
C
Normocytic anemia has normal-sized red blood cells, while microcytic anemia has smaller red blood cells
✓
D
Normocytic anemia has irregularly-shaped red blood cells, while microcytic anemia has uniformly-shaped red blood cells
Explanation
Normocytic anemia is characterized by normal-sized red blood cells, while microcytic anemia is characterized by smaller-than-normal red blood cells.
Mnemonic
Normo = Normal, Micro = Small
Source
Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease
Hematology
Hematology: Blood Components
Hematology: Blood Components
Medium
MEDICAL
Confidence: high