Question

A 70-year-old man with iron deficiency anaemia (Hb 90 g/L, ferritin 5 µg/L) and no obvious source of blood loss presents to his GP. He has no upper GI symptoms. What is the most appropriate next investigation?

Accepted Answer

Arrange colonoscopy and, if negative or indicated, upper GI endoscopy to investigate occult gastrointestinal bleeding

Answer

Start oral iron and review in 12 months without further tests

Answer

Assume thalassaemia trait and provide reassurance

Answer

Order haemoglobin electrophoresis only

Answer

Perform bone marrow biopsy as first-line

Practice question

A 70-year-old man with iron deficiency anaemia (Hb 90 g/L, ferritin 5 µg/L) and no obvious source of blood loss presents to his GP. He has no upper GI symptoms. What is the most appropriate next investigation?