A patient with anemia is found to have a low reticulocyte count and a normocytic anemia on peripheral smear. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A Iron deficiency anemia
B Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia
C Anemia of chronic kidney disease ✓
D Pure red cell aplasia

Explanation

A low reticulocyte count indicates inadequate erythropoiesis, and normocytic anemia can be seen in anemia of chronic kidney disease due to decreased erythropoietin production.

Source

Williams Hematology
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Hard MEDICAL Confidence: medium