Question

A 50-year-old woman presents with progressive fatigue and a haemoglobin of 86 g/L with microcytosis and low ferritin. She has no menorrhagia. Which is the most appropriate next diagnostic step?

Accepted Answer

Arrange colonoscopy to evaluate for gastrointestinal blood loss

Answer

Start iron supplementation and no further workup

Answer

Check B12 and folate only

Answer

Order haemoglobin electrophoresis only

Answer

Reassure as this is normal with ageing

Practice question

A 50-year-old woman presents with progressive fatigue and a haemoglobin of 86 g/L with microcytosis and low ferritin. She has no menorrhagia. Which is the most appropriate next diagnostic step?