Differential Diagnosis for Iron Studies
The patient's iron studies show low iron levels (37-145 mcg/dL), high total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) (228-428 mcg/dL), and low iron saturation (20-55%). Based on these results, the following differential diagnoses can be considered:
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Iron deficiency anemia: This is the most likely diagnosis given the low iron levels, high TIBC, and low iron saturation. The body's iron stores are depleted, leading to a decrease in iron available for erythropoiesis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Anemia of chronic disease: This condition can also present with low iron levels and high TIBC, although the iron saturation may be normal or elevated due to the body's inflammatory response.
- Chronic blood loss: Ongoing blood loss can lead to iron deficiency anemia, especially if the loss is not adequately compensated by dietary iron intake.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Celiac disease: This autoimmune disorder can lead to malabsorption of iron and other essential nutrients, resulting in iron deficiency anemia.
- Gastric cancer: Chronic blood loss from a gastric malignancy can cause iron deficiency anemia, and early detection is crucial for treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Atransferrinemia: A rare genetic disorder characterized by the absence of transferrin, leading to impaired iron transport and utilization.
- Aceruloplasminemia: A rare genetic disorder affecting iron metabolism, resulting in iron accumulation in tissues and potentially leading to iron deficiency anemia.