Iron Deficiency

Question 1

What can cause iron deficiency?

Answer 1

Insufficient iron 
Malabsorption of iron 
Bleedig 
Increased requiremtn 
Anaemia of chronic disease

Question 2

How does anaemia of chronic disease cause iron deficiency?

Answer 2

Inflammation causes cytokine release
Cytokines increase hepcidin
Inhibits ferroportin
Reduces plasma iron

Question 3

What are symptoms of anaemia?

Answer 3

Tiredness
Pallor
Reduced exercise tolerance 
Dizziness 
Pica 
Cold hands + feet

Question 4

What are signs of iron deficiency?

Answer 4

Angular cheilitis
Glossitis
Koilonychia

Question 5

What is pica?

Answer 5

Unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances

Question 6

What are the FBC results in iron deficiency?

Answer 6

Low MCV
Low MCHC
Low iron
Low ferritin

Question 7

What are the appearance of RBCs in iron deficiency?

Answer 7

Microcytic

Hypochromic

Question 8

How is iron deficiency managed?

Answer 8

Dietary advice

Oral iron supplements

Question 9

What is an important consideration in an older person presenting with iron deficiency anaemia?

Answer 9

GI cancer

Question 10

What other test should be done in a younger person presenting with iron deficiency anaemia?

Answer 10

Coeliac screen

- Anti TTG