Iron deficiency anaemia

Question 1

What is the aetiology of iron deficiency anaemia?

Answer 1

Dietary insufficiency
Chronic blood loss
Malabsorption disorders
Increased demand

Question 2

What are the signs and symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia?

Answer 2

Tiredness
Lethargy
Weakness
Palpitations
Cold intolerance
Headaches and dizziness
Brittle nails
Angular stomatitis
Atrophic glossitis

Question 3

What are the differentials of iron deficiency anaemia?

Answer 3

Colorectal malignancy
Thalassaemia
Chronic inflammatory conditions

Question 4

What investigations are used in the diagnosis of iron deficiency anaemia?

Answer 4

FBC - microcytic anaemia
Total iron binding capacity - high
Ferritin - low
Blood film
- Hypochromic, microcytic red cells
- Additional pencil cells
- Occasional target cells

Question 5

What is the management of iron deficiency anaemia?

Answer 5

Oral or IV iron supplements
Dietary modifications

Question 6

What are the side effects of oral iron supplementation?

Answer 6

Diarrhoea
Constipation
Black stools
Abdominal pain
Nausea

Question 7

How should iron supplements be taken?

Answer 7

Iron supplements should be taken on an empty stomach, with a drink containing vitamin C to aid absorption