Which of the following is useful in helping to distinguish mild asymptomatic iron deficiency from thalassemia trait?

a. Low MCV with relatively high red blood count
b. Mild anemia
c. Increased osmotic fragility
d. Increased ferritin

ANS: B
The red blood cell (RBC) count is relatively high with a low MCV in thalassemia trait. In iron deficiency the MCV can be low, but the red count is also low. None of the other findings listed distinguish the two from one another.

Health Professions

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HCPCS Level I codes for professional services are:

A) ICD-9 codes. B) CPT codes. C) E&M codes. D) none of the above.

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Indicate whether the statement is true or false

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