A patient presents with normocytic anemia, and further investigation reveals a reduced reticulocyte count. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A Anemia of chronic disease
B Bone marrow failure syndrome ✓
C Hemolytic anemia
D Iron deficiency anemia

Explanation

Normocytic anemia with a reduced reticulocyte count suggests a problem with red blood cell production, which is characteristic of bone marrow failure syndromes such as aplastic anemia.

Source

Williams Hematology
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high