Which of the following is the most common cause of acquired hemolytic anemia?
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is the most common cause of acquired hemolytic anemia, where the immune system mistakenly attacks red blood cells.
Which laboratory test is primarily used to assess liver function?
Liver function tests (LFTs), which include ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin, are the primary lab tests used to assess liver function.
A patient presents with a high white blood cell count. Which condition is most likely?
Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) typically presents with a very high white blood cell count, often exceeding 100,000/µL.
What is the primary function of platelets in the blood?
Platelets are essential for blood clotting. They help form blood clots to prevent excessive bleeding by adhering to the site of injury.
Which of the following tests is most appropriate for diagnosing tuberculosis (TB)?
A sputum smear for acid-fast bacilli is the most definitive test for diagnosing tuberculosis by identifying the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacteria.
In which condition is a "shift to the left" observed in the white blood cell count?
A "shift to the left" refers to the presence of immature white blood cells (band cells) in the blood, commonly observed during acute infections or inflammation.
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What does a positive Coombs test indicate?
A positive Coombs test indicates the presence of antibodies against red blood cells, which is typical in autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
Which of the following conditions is associated with a high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)?
Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with a high ESR, as it is an inflammatory condition that accelerates the settling of red blood cells in a test tube.
What is the primary purpose of a bone marrow biopsy?
A bone marrow biopsy is performed to evaluate the production and quality of blood cells, and to diagnose conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, and myelodysplastic syndromes.