A patient with anemia is found to have a low reticulocyte count and a normal white blood cell and platelet count. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A Aplastic anemia ✓
B Myelodysplastic syndrome
C Iron deficiency anemia
D Anemia of chronic disease

Explanation

A low reticulocyte count indicates a problem with red blood cell production. Aplastic anemia is characterized by a failure of the bone marrow to produce blood cells, resulting in low reticulocyte count and normal white blood cell and platelet count.

Source

Williams Hematology
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Hard MEDICAL Confidence: high