A 40-year-old man presents with chronic diarrhoea and weight loss. Laboratory studies show microcytic anaemia (Hb 102 g/L, MCV 70 fL) and low ferritin...

Question

A 40-year-old man presents with chronic diarrhoea and weight loss. Laboratory studies show microcytic anaemia (Hb 102 g/L, MCV 70 fL) and low ferritin. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Start oral iron supplementation and investigate for gastrointestinal blood loss

Answer

No treatment required if patient is asymptomatic

Answer

Transfuse two units of red blood cells immediately

Answer

Start high-dose prednisone

Answer

Begin broad-spectrum antibiotics

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Iron deficiency anaemia

A 40-year-old man presents with chronic diarrhoea and weight loss. Laboratory studies show microcytic anaemia (Hb 102 g/L, MCV 70 fL) and low ferritin. What is the most appropriate initial management?