Which hemogram result is most indicative of iron deficiency anemia?

The correct choice reflects classic characteristics of iron deficiency anemia. In this case, a hemoglobin level of 8.6 g/dL and a hematocrit of 32% indicate a state of anemia. The essential components that highlight iron deficiency anemia are a reduced mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and an elevated red cell distribution width (RDW).

The MCV of 71 fL signifies microcytic anemia, which is commonly seen in iron deficiency. Microcytic red blood cells can be significantly smaller than normal due to inadequate hemoglobin synthesis linked to insufficient iron. The RDW of 18.1% being elevated also supports the diagnosis. This is because iron deficiency can lead to a mixed population of red blood cell sizes: some microcytic and some normocytic, while other types of anemia often do not show such a wide variation in red cell size.

Therefore, this hemogram result convincingly aligns with the hallmark profile of iron deficiency anemia, characterized by low hemoglobin and hematocrit, microcytic size, and an increased RDW.