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Microcytic anaemia is a clue, and the cause is the diagnosis
Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common anaemia worldwide. It results from insufficient iron intake, impaired absorption or blood loss. The evaluation must identify the cause, especially gastrointestinal blood loss, and not simply replace iron. Treatment combines cause-directed management with iron replacement.
Haematology & Haemato-Oncology
Authored and reviewed by Dr. Sachita Baniya (MBBS, FCPS (Clinical Haematology), NMC 20158). Evidence-based, no fabricated outcomes.
Iron deficiency anaemia is the most common anaemia worldwide. It results from insufficient iron intake, impaired absorption or blood loss. The evaluation must identify the cause, especially gastrointestinal blood loss, and not simply replace iron. Treatment combines cause-directed management with iron replacement.
Reviewed by Dr. Sachita Baniya, MBBS, FCPS — Consultant Haemato-Oncologist & Clinical Hematologist (NMC 20158). For evaluation, contact the respective hospital or cancer centre — Kathmandu Cancer Center (KCC) Nepal, Civil Service Hospital Kathmandu, or Advanced Care Hospital.
Iron deficiency produces microcytic, hypochromic anaemia with low ferritin, low serum iron and raised transferrin saturation. Ferritin can be misleading in inflammation, so clinical context matters. Coeliac disease, menorrhagia, gastrointestinal lesions and medication-related bleeding are common causes. The peripheral smear helps distinguish iron deficiency from thalassaemia.
Oral iron is first-line for most patients and should be continued after haemoglobin correction to replenish stores. Intravenous iron is used for malabsorption, intolerance, ongoing loss or late pregnancy. The underlying cause is treated in parallel. Response is monitored with haemoglobin and ferritin, and recurrence prompts reassessment.
Guidelines referenced:
British Society for Haematology guidelines on the management of iron deficiency anaemiaWHO guidance on anaemiaNICE suspected cancer referral guidanceContent on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. In case of a medical emergency, contact emergency services immediately. No doctor–patient relationship is established by use of this site or by contacting the clinic through the site.