1st April 2022

A 42-year-old woman is being investigated for persistent anaemia

A 42-year-old woman is being investigated for persistent anaemia. She was found by her GP to have microcytic anaemia which has not improved following iron replacement. She has no signs or symptoms of any sources of bleeding but feels short of breath on exertion and more tired than normal. She does not think there is a history of anaemia within her family, but is uncertain as many of her family live in Iran, where she has emigrated from. She has never received a blood transfusion

Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis, and category of the underlying disease?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.