Ace the NRCMA 2026 – Get Ready to Rock Your Medical Assistant Skills!

Poikilocytosis refers to the variation in shape of red blood cells and is usually caused by a deficiency in certain vitamins or minerals. This can lead to a decreased ability of the red blood cells to carry oxygen, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue and paleness.

A. Anemia is not the correct answer because anemia refers to a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin in the blood.

B. Leukopenia is not related to red blood cells at all. It refers to a decrease in white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections and diseases.

D. Hemolysis also does not accurately describe variation in the shape of red cells. Hemolysis refers to the breakdown of red blood cells, which can be caused by various factors such as infections, certain medications, or autoimmune disorders.