A Complete blood count (CBC) is requested on a full-term newborn girl, and the following results are obtained:

RBCs 5.07 x 1012/L
Hemoglobin 14.4
Hematocrit 44.5%
MCV 88 fL
White blood cells (WBCs) 26.8 x 109/L
Platelets 295 x 109/L

What conclusion can be made regarding these data for this infant?

a. All results are normal.
b. The white count is elevated.
c. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, and MCV are all decreased.
d. Red cell count, hemoglobin, and hematocrit are all normal, but MCV is decreased.

ANS: C
The hemoglobin, hematocrit, and MCV are all low for a full-term newborn (the red count is actually in the reference range). Because the red count is relatively high for the hematocrit and hemoglobin, with the low MCV, thalassemia should be suspected.