A 60-Year-Old African-American Female Is Evaluated for Fatigue

A 60-year-old African-American female is evaluated for fatigue.  Past surgical history includes mitral valve repair with a mechanical valve due to severe mitral insufficiency.  She has 30-pack year history of smoking and occasionally drinks alcohol.  Examination shows pallor.  Laboratory studies show the following:Complete blood count Serum chemistries are within normal limits.  Her peripheral smear shows red blood cell fragments, "burr cells," and "helmet cells".  Which of the following is the most likely cause of her condition?

A) Microvascular thrombi
B) Cytoskeleton abnormality
C) Impaired DNA synthesis
D) Gastrointestinal blood loss
E) Mutation in beta globin chain
F) Complement mediated hemolysis
G) Mechanical trauma

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free