An 80-year-old man presents with fatigue and exertional dyspnoea. His full blood count reveals: Hb 90 g/L, MCV 75 fL, MCH 24 pg. His GP suspects iron ...

Question

An 80-year-old man presents with fatigue and exertional dyspnoea. His full blood count reveals: Hb 90 g/L, MCV 75 fL, MCH 24 pg. His GP suspects iron deficiency anaemia. What is the most important next step in his investigation to identify the underlying cause?

Accepted Answer

Faecal occult blood testing and referral for upper and lower GI endoscopy

Answer

Trial of oral iron and recheck FBC in 2 months

Answer

Serum B12 and folate levels

Answer

Bone marrow biopsy

Answer

Check coeliac serology

ukmla MCQ (SBA): Iron Deficiency Anaemia (Investigation)

An 80-year-old man presents with fatigue and exertional dyspnoea. His full blood count reveals: Hb 90 g/L, MCV 75 fL, MCH 24 pg. His GP suspects iron deficiency anaemia. What is the most important next step in his investigation to identify the underlying cause?