A patient with anemia is found to have a high level of urinary urobilinogen. What is the most likely cause of this finding?

A Hemolytic anemia ✓
B Iron deficiency anemia
C Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia
D Anemia of chronic disease

Explanation

Urobilinogen is a byproduct of bilirubin metabolism, and high levels in the urine can indicate increased breakdown of red blood cells, as seen in hemolytic anemia.

Mnemonic

_uro-bilin-ogen = urine + breakdown product

Source

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Hard MEDICAL Confidence: high