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What side effects are associated with oral ferrous sulfate treatment?
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Diarrhea, constipation, black stool (guaiac negative).
What condition can lead to malabsorption of iron, contributing to iron deficiency anemia?
Celiac disease or post-gastric surgery.
Which lab finding distinguishes iron deficiency anemia from anemia of chronic disease?
Increased total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) in iron deficiency anemia.
Describe the pathophysiological change in red blood cells caused by iron deficiency.
RBCs become smaller (microcytic anemia) with increased central pallor.
What is a significant risk associated with intravenous iron therapy, especially with iron dextran?
Risk of anaphylaxis.
Why are females at greater risk for iron deficiency anemia?
Due to menstruation.
List at least three clinical features associated with iron deficiency anemia.
Pale, tired, angina, weak, irritable, exercise intolerance, spoon-shaped nails, pica.
Why might a bone marrow biopsy be performed in the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia?
To assess iron stores directly, though it is a painful procedure and not commonly done.
What is Plummer-Vinson syndrome and its association with iron deficiency anemia?
A condition associated with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), iron deficiency anemia, and esophageal webs.
What is the most common cause of iron deficiency anemia in the developing world?
Nutritional deficiency.
Describe the role of soluble transferrin receptor in diagnosing iron deficiency anemia.
Increased soluble transferrin receptor levels can indicate iron deficiency anemia.
What are the typical characteristics of red blood cells in iron deficiency anemia?
Microcytic and hypochromic.
Which two nutritional factors can contribute to iron deficiency anemia in a vegan diet?
Lack of heme iron and possible over-reliance on non-heme iron, which is less readily absorbed.
How can you differentiate iron deficiency anemia from anemia of chronic disease using ferritin levels?
Iron deficiency anemia shows low ferritin, whereas anemia of chronic disease may have normal or high ferritin due to inflammation.
What are the main reasons for increased iron demand that can lead to iron deficiency anemia?
Pregnancy, lactation, and growth periods.
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