A 65 year-old man comes to his primary care physician because of lower back pain, recurrent
sinus infections, and 4 kg (8.8 lb) unintentional weight loss over the past three months. Past medical history is notable for
osteoporosis and
atherosclerosis. The patient consumes 4-5 glasses of wine per week and is sexually active with his spouse. His temperature is 36.8°C (98.2°F),
blood pressure is 125/76 mmHg,
pulse is 65/min, and
respiratory rate is 15/min. Cardiac, pulmonary, and abdominal exams are normal. Pain is elicited with palpation of the
lumbar spine. As part of the diagnostic work-up, a peripheral blood smear is ordered, and the results are as follows:
Image from Wikimedia
Which of the following findings will provide a definitive diagnosis of the patient’s condition?