A patient with anemia is found to have a low reticulocyte count and a normal serum erythropoietin level. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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

Explanation

A low reticulocyte count indicates inadequate bone marrow response to anemia, while a normal serum erythropoietin level suggests that the kidney is producing adequate amounts of erythropoietin. This combination is most consistent with bone marrow failure syndrome.

Source

UpToDate article on anemia diagnosis
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: medium