Question

A 34-year-old woman presents with fatigue, headache, shortness of breath, and dizziness upon rising from a chair. The patient denies pregnancy or recent illness; she is taking no medications. She has no pain. Upon physical exam, her skin is pale; her nails are brittle, and she has a blood pressure of 98/76 mm Hg. CBC reveals a microcytic anemia.

What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer 1

The most likely diagnosis for this patient is iron-deficiency anemia, which is characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells. Symptoms include fatigue, headache, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Physical examination findings of pale skin, brittle nails, and low blood pressure support this diagnosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely diagnosis for this patient is iron-deficiency anemia. Iron-deficiency anemia is characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells, resulting in reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. The symptoms described by the patient, such as fatigue, headache, shortness of breath, and dizziness, are common in individuals with anemia. The physical examination findings of pale skin, brittle nails, and low blood pressure further support this diagnosis.