What lab results would correlate with sickle cell anemia?

Prepare for the AAB Medical Technologist (MT) Generalist Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to boost your understanding. Get exam-ready now!

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the production of abnormal hemoglobin, known as hemoglobin S, which can lead to hemolytic anemia and vaso-occlusive crises. One of the hallmark features of this condition is the presence of low hemoglobin (Hgb) levels due to chronic hemolysis, which reflects the inadequate number of healthy red blood cells.

In the context of the provided options, the results that best correlate with sickle cell anemia show very low hemoglobin and hematocrit values. An Hgb level of 5.0 g/dL and an Hct of 17% indicate severe anemia, consistent with the findings in individuals experiencing a sickle cell crisis or chronic complications of the disease. The elevated white blood cell count at 13.0 X 10^9/L may also reflect an increased response to stress or infection, which can occur in sickle cell disease patients, as these individuals are more susceptible to infections.

The other options present hemoglobin and hematocrit levels that do not align with the severity typically seen in sickle cell anemia. Higher values indicate less severe anemia, which would be less typical for someone with this condition, especially during a crisis. Therefore, the lab results

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy