Question

a 22 - year - old male presents to your office with a b12 deficiency due to a lack of intrinsic factor. what size would you expect the cells to be? a) nucleated b) microcytic c) macrocytic d) shaped like a stack of coins

Explanation:

A lack of intrinsic factor leads to vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis. In its deficiency, red blood cell precursors (megaloblasts) are unable to divide normally, resulting in the production of large (macrocytic) red blood cells. Nucleated red blood cells are not a typical finding in this condition. Microcytic cells are seen in iron - deficiency anemia. Red blood cells shaped like a stack of coins (rouleaux formation) is usually due to increased plasma proteins (e.g., in multiple myeloma) rather than B12 deficiency.

Answer:

C. Macrocytic