Thalassemia minor is characterized by which type of red blood cells?

Thalassemia minor, also known as alpha or beta thalassemia trait, is characterized by the presence of microcytic, hypochromic red blood cells. This means that the red blood cells are smaller than normal (microcytic) and have a reduced amount of hemoglobin, resulting in a paler appearance (hypochromic). The condition is a result of a genetic defect that affects the synthesis of hemoglobin, leading to an imbalance in globin chain production.

In thalassemia minor, the body compensates for the reduced hemoglobin production, leading to the production of a larger number of red blood cells, but these cells are small in size and not as effective at carrying oxygen. This characteristic is important for diagnosis and differentiates it from other types of anemia. The presence of microcytic, hypochromic red blood cells is a typical finding on a complete blood count and peripheral blood smear in patients with thalassemia minor, making this option the correct choice for the question.