A patient with anemia is found to have a high level of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15). What is the most likely underlying cause of their anemia?

A Iron deficiency anemia
B Anemia of chronic disease ✓
C Sickle cell anemia
D Pernicious anemia

Explanation

GDF-15 is a protein that is elevated in response to inflammation and tissue hypoxia, and is often seen in anemia of chronic disease.

Source

NEJM journal
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high