Differential Diagnosis for 49F with Iron Deficiency
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA): The patient's lab results show low hemoglobin, hematocrit, and iron saturation, with elevated TIBC and low ferritin levels, which are consistent with iron deficiency anemia. The patient's history of repeat iron deficiency also supports this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Chronic Blood Loss: The patient's iron deficiency anemia could be due to chronic blood loss, which may be caused by conditions such as menstrual irregularities, gastrointestinal bleeding, or other underlying medical conditions.
- Inadequate Iron Intake: The patient's diet may be deficient in iron, leading to iron deficiency anemia.
- Chronic Disease: The patient's anemia could be related to a chronic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, or chronic kidney disease, which can cause anemia of chronic disease.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Gastrointestinal Malignancy: Although less likely, gastrointestinal malignancy can cause iron deficiency anemia due to chronic blood loss. It is essential to rule out this possibility, especially in older adults.
- Celiac Disease: Celiac disease can cause iron deficiency anemia due to malabsorption of iron. This diagnosis should be considered, especially if the patient has other symptoms such as diarrhea or abdominal pain.
- Thyroid Dysfunction: Thyroid dysfunction can cause anemia, and iron deficiency anemia can also be associated with thyroid disease.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pernicious Anemia: Pernicious anemia is a rare cause of iron deficiency anemia, caused by a lack of intrinsic factor leading to vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Sideroblastic Anemia: Sideroblastic anemia is a rare disorder characterized by the accumulation of iron in the mitochondria of red blood cell precursors, leading to anemia.
- Hemoglobinopathy: Hemoglobinopathy, such as thalassemia, can cause anemia and may be associated with iron deficiency. However, this diagnosis is less likely in a 49-year-old female without a known family history.