Which type of anemia may present with hypochromic, microcytic red cells?

Iron deficiency anemia is characterized by the presence of hypochromic, microcytic red blood cells. This type of anemia occurs when there is a shortage of iron in the body, which is essential for hemoglobin production. Consequently, when there is insufficient iron, the body produces smaller red blood cells (microcytic) that also contain less hemoglobin, resulting in a paler appearance (hypochromic).

In general, microcytic anemia is most commonly associated with iron deficiency. Other forms of anemia, such as folic acid deficiency anemia, typically lead to macrocytic red cells due to impaired DNA synthesis, while hemolytic anemia is characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, which does not necessarily produce hypochromic, microcytic cells. Aplastic anemia, on the other hand, results from the failure of the bone marrow to produce enough blood cells and can present with a range of red blood cell sizes, but not specifically hypochromic and microcytic.

Therefore, the presence of hypochromic, microcytic red cells is a hallmark of iron deficiency anemia, making this the correct answer.