Answer:
Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) occurs when there is not enough iron in the body, leading to a decreased production of fully functional red blood cells (RBCs). This results in a condition called microcytic anemia, where the red blood cells are abnormally small.
The measurement of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is used to assess the variation in the size of RBCs. In IDA, the low iron levels disrupt the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Consequently, the body compensates for the reduced number of functional RBCs by producing a wider range of cell sizes, including smaller ones. This variation in RBC size contributes to an increased RDW.
Therefore, in IDA, the lack of iron affects normal RBC production, leading to small and varied-sized RBCs, resulting in a higher RDW value. However, it's important to note that an elevated RDW can also occur in other conditions. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis.