You are treating a patient with suspected iron deficiency anemia.Which laboratory test would you order for its accuracy in rendering this diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Serum ferritin level is the best laboratory test to order for accuracy in rendering a diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron, and its level decreases when the body is low in iron. A low level of serum ferritin is the most specific marker for diagnosing iron-deficiency anemia. Serum iron level and vitamin B12 and B6 levels are not specific markers for diagnosing iron-deficiency anemia.

You Are Treating a Patient with Suspected Iron Deficiency Anemia