The anemia is usually dimorphic with a microcytic hypochromic and normocytic normochromic population. The MCV is decreased. The RDW is increased while the RBC histogram shows a bimodal peak. The white cell count and differential is variable and depends upon the cause of the anemia. The bone marrow shows erythroid hyperplasia.
Ringed sideroblasts are present.
The TIBC is normal. Lead poisoning Lead Poisoning Lead is a particularly toxic metal which impairs globin, membrane and heme production. Most patients are children and present with a hypochromic microcytic anemia. The indices are decreased and the RDW is increased. The RBC histogram is left shifted.