Clinical Haematology2 UKMLA questions
Iron deficiency anaemia — UKMLA Revision Notes
Iron deficiency anaemia is an important clinical condition in Clinical Haematology that is tested in the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). Medical students and doctors preparing for the UKMLA or PLAB 1 must understand the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigations, and evidence-based management of Iron deficiency anaemia as outlined in current NICE guidelines.
Key Facts
- Iron deficiency anaemia is a key condition on the GMC UKMLA Content Map
- Commonly tested in the Clinical Haematology section of the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test
- Understand the pathophysiology, clinical features, investigations, and management
- NICE guidelines provide the evidence base for management decisions
- Consider differential diagnoses and red flag symptoms in clinical scenarios
Investigations
- FBC + film
- Coagulation screen (PT, APTT)
- LDH, uric acid
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Flow cytometry
- Haemoglobin electrophoresis
Management
- Treat underlying cause
- Blood product transfusion if indicated
- Anticoagulation/antiplatelet therapy
- Chemotherapy/targeted therapy for haematological malignancy
- Haematology outpatient follow-up
- Bone marrow transplant if indicated