Differential Diagnosis for Iron Deficiency Anemia

The patient's laboratory results show low iron levels, high total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), low iron saturation, and low ferritin levels, which are indicative of iron deficiency anemia. Here is a differential diagnosis based on these findings:

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Iron deficiency anemia due to chronic blood loss: This is the most likely diagnosis given the low iron, high TIBC, low iron saturation, and low ferritin levels. Chronic blood loss, such as from gastrointestinal bleeding, menstrual bleeding, or other sources, can lead to iron deficiency anemia.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Iron deficiency anemia due to inadequate dietary intake: A diet lacking sufficient iron can lead to iron deficiency anemia, especially in individuals with increased iron requirements, such as pregnant women.
  • Iron deficiency anemia due to increased iron requirements: Conditions like pregnancy, lactation, or rapid growth can increase the body's demand for iron, leading to deficiency if dietary intake is insufficient.
  • Chronic diseases (e.g., chronic kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis): Chronic diseases can lead to iron deficiency anemia due to inflammation, which can cause a decrease in iron availability.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Gastrointestinal malignancy: Although less likely, gastrointestinal malignancies can cause chronic blood loss leading to iron deficiency anemia. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
  • Celiac disease: This autoimmune disorder can lead to malabsorption of iron and other nutrients, resulting in iron deficiency anemia. If left untreated, celiac disease can have serious complications.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Hereditary hemochromatosis with iron deficiency: Although hereditary hemochromatosis typically leads to iron overload, some individuals may experience iron deficiency due to increased iron loss or other factors.
  • Atransferrinemia: A rare genetic disorder characterized by the absence of transferrin, a protein that binds to iron, leading to iron deficiency anemia.
  • Aceruloplasminemia: A rare genetic disorder that affects iron metabolism, leading to iron deficiency anemia and other systemic complications.