A patient with anemia due to chronic kidney disease is likely to have which of the following laboratory findings?

A Elevated erythropoietin levels and decreased reticulocyte count
B Decreased erythropoietin levels and increased reticulocyte count
C Normal erythropoietin levels and decreased reticulocyte count
D Decreased erythropoietin levels and decreased reticulocyte count ✓

Explanation

Anemia of chronic kidney disease is characterized by decreased production of erythropoietin by the kidneys, leading to a decrease in red blood cell production and a subsequent decrease in reticulocyte count.

Source

Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) clinical practice guidelines
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high