Which condition is characterized by microcytic anemia and poor wound healing due to copper deficiency?

Prepare for USMLE Step 1 Pathology Exam with comprehensive quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and be exam-ready!

Menke's syndrome is an X-linked genetic disorder that results in a deficiency of copper due to defective absorption and transport of copper in the body. One of the hallmark features of this condition is microcytic anemia, which occurs because copper is essential for iron metabolism. Inadequate copper levels lead to impaired iron utilization, causing the production of smaller red blood cells.

Additionally, copper plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis and other enzymatic processes that are vital for wound healing. Therefore, individuals with Menke's syndrome often experience poor wound healing as a result of the underlying copper deficiency. This combination of microcytic anemia and poor wound healing is a key characteristic of Menke's syndrome.

The other conditions listed do not typically present with both microcytic anemia and poor wound healing due to copper deficiency. Hemochromatosis is characterized by excessive iron accumulation. Aplastic anemia involves a failure of hematopoiesis, leading to decreased production of red blood cells. Megaloblastic anemia is often associated with Vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies, resulting in macrocytic rather than microcytic anemia.

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