Differential Diagnosis

The patient's laboratory results indicate a mild anemia with a low iron saturation and ferritin level. Based on these findings, the following differential diagnosis can be considered:

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Iron deficiency anemia: The patient's low ferritin level (16) and iron saturation (35%) are indicative of iron deficiency anemia. The mild anemia (Hematocrit 39) and normal MCV (93) also support this diagnosis.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Anemia of chronic disease: The patient's low iron saturation and ferritin level could also be seen in anemia of chronic disease. However, the total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is elevated, which is more consistent with iron deficiency anemia.
  • Thalassemia trait: The patient's MCV (93) is at the lower end of the normal range, and the MCH (29) is slightly low. However, the MCHC (31) is normal, making thalassemia trait less likely.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Celiac disease: Celiac disease can cause iron deficiency anemia due to malabsorption of iron. It is essential to consider this diagnosis, as it can have significant implications for the patient's management and quality of life.
  • Chronic blood loss: Chronic blood loss, such as from gastrointestinal bleeding or menstrual bleeding, can cause iron deficiency anemia. It is crucial to investigate and rule out any potential sources of chronic blood loss.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Sideroblastic anemia: This rare disorder is characterized by abnormal iron metabolism and can cause anemia. However, the patient's laboratory results do not strongly support this diagnosis.
  • Pregnancy-related anemia: If the patient is pregnant, the anemia could be related to the pregnancy. However, this would not explain the low ferritin level and iron saturation.