Question

A 45-year-old man presents with fatigue and dyspnoea on exertion. Full blood count shows haemoglobin 90 g/L, MCV 72 fL, low ferritin and low transferrin saturation. He reports occasional dark stools and is a long-term smoker. According to Australian recommendations, what is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Start oral iron and arrange urgent colonoscopy

Answer

Start oral iron and review in 12 months, with no further investigation

Answer

Arrange haemoglobin electrophoresis only

Answer

Reassure that this is likely thalassaemia trait

Answer

Start vitamin B12 injections

Practice question