American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

What is a common hematological manifestation of copper deficiency?

1. Leukopenia

2. Pancytopenia

3. Polycythemia

4. Anemia

The correct answer is: Pancytopenia

A common hematological manifestation of copper deficiency is anemia. Copper is an essential trace element that plays a critical role in various physiological processes, including iron metabolism and the formation of hemoglobin. When there is a deficiency of copper, the body is unable to effectively utilize iron for the production of red blood cells, leading to anemia. According to studies, copper deficiency can result in microcytic anemia, which is characterized by smaller than normal red blood cells due to impaired hemoglobin production. This condition can manifest as fatigue, weakness, and pallor. In contrast to this, pancytopenia, which is a reduction in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, is typically associated with conditions such as bone marrow disorders or hypersplenism, rather than solely with copper deficiency. Other potential hematological manifestations such as leukopenia or polycythemia are not directly tied to copper deficiency in the same way that anemia is. So, while copper deficiency does relate to various hematological issues, anemia remains the most prominent and recognized manifestation, making it the correct answer to the question.