Differential Diagnosis for Low RDW
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Iron deficiency anemia: This is the most common cause of a low RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) as it typically results in a homogeneous population of red blood cells, leading to a narrow distribution width.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Thalassemia: Certain types of thalassemia, particularly alpha-thalassemia, can present with a low RDW due to the uniform size of the red blood cells.
- Anemia of chronic disease: In some cases, anemia of chronic disease can have a low RDW, although this is less common than other causes.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Sickle cell disease: Although less common, sickle cell disease can sometimes present with a low RDW, especially in cases where the disease is well-compensated or in the early stages.
- Polycythemia vera: A myeloproliferative disorder that can lead to an increase in red blood cell mass, sometimes presenting with a low RDW due to the uniformity of the red blood cells.
- Rare diagnoses
- Hereditary spherocytosis: A rare genetic disorder characterized by the production of abnormal, sphere-shaped red blood cells, which can sometimes present with a low RDW.
- Other rare hemoglobinopathies: Certain rare hemoglobinopathies, such as hemoglobin C or E, can also present with a low RDW, although these are less common than other causes.