skip to main content

Iron Deficiency Anaemia — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyHaematology & OncologyIron Deficiency AnaemiaRACP Paediatrics

A 5-year-old child is found to have a haemoglobin of 55 g/L, MCV 62 fL, ferritin 3 mcg/L, and a blood film showing hypochromic microcytic red cells with pencil cells. She has a diet consisting mainly of cow's milk. What is the diagnosis and treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Iron deficiency anaemia – oral iron supplementation and dietary advice

Severe microcytic hypochromic anaemia with a very low ferritin in a child on an excessive cow's milk diet is classic iron deficiency anaemia. Cow's milk is low in iron and inhibits iron absorption. Treatment is oral iron (3–6 mg/kg/day of elemental iron) for at least 3 months, dietary modification to increase iron-rich foods and reduce cow's milk to <500 mL/day.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Iron Deficiency