Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What type of anemia is beta thalassemia minor classified as?

1. Macrocytic anemia

2. Normocytic anemia

3. Microcytic anemia

4. Hemolytic anemia

The correct answer is: Microcytic anemia

Beta thalassemia minor is classified as microcytic anemia. This classification stems from the characteristic changes in red blood cells that occur due to the inadequate production of beta-globin chains, which are essential components of hemoglobin. As a result, the body compensates by producing smaller, more numerous red blood cells, leading to a decrease in the mean corpuscular volume (MCV). In patients with beta thalassemia minor, laboratory tests typically show a low MCV (indicating smaller red blood cells) alongside an increased red blood cell count. This is in contrast to other forms of anemia. For instance, macrocytic anemia involves larger-than-normal red blood cells, often associated with vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies, while normocytic anemia presents with red blood cells of normal size but usually reflects an underlying condition affecting red blood cell production. Hemolytic anemia, characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells, presents differently and does not fit the profile of beta thalassemia minor. Overall, the specific characteristics of beta thalassemia minor, particularly its microcytic nature and the associated laboratory findings, solidify its classification as microcytic anemia.