This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: Blood, Subject name: Medicine
[{'content': 'An 18-year-old man, of Italian extraction, is found to have a hypochromic microcytic anemia of 10 g/dL. In addition, there are a fair number of anisocytosis, poikilocytosis, and target cells seen on the blood film. The WBC is 9500/mL, the platelet count is 240,000/mL, and the reticulocyte count is 7%. The spleen is palpated 5 cm below the left costal margin. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis? \nSelect and explain. \nA. sickle cell trait, B. thalassemia minor, C. HbS-C disease, D. sideroblastic anemia', 'role': 'user'}, {'content': 'Answer: B \nExplanation: Thalassemia minor usually represents a heterozygous state and is often asymptomatic. Symptoms may develop during periods of stress such as pregnancy or severe infection. Hemoglobin values are usually in the 9-11 g/dL range. The red cells are small and poorly hemoglobinized.', 'role': 'assistant'}]