Question

A 63-year-old woman is found to have iron deficiency anaemia (Hb 90 g/L, MCV 72 fL, low ferritin). She has no menorrhagia and reports occasional change in bowel habit. According to Canadian practice, what is the most appropriate next step in investigating the cause?

Accepted Answer

Arrange colonoscopy to evaluate for possible colorectal malignancy or other gastrointestinal blood loss

Answer

Start oral iron and repeat blood work in six months without further investigation

Answer

Order only an abdominal ultrasound

Answer

Attribute the anaemia to diet and prescribe multivitamins

Answer

Perform bone marrow biopsy immediately

Practice question

A 63-year-old woman is found to have iron deficiency anaemia (Hb 90 g/L, MCV 72 fL, low ferritin). She has no menorrhagia and reports occasional change in bowel habit. According to Canadian practice, what is the most appropriate next step in investigating the cause?