How Is Iron-Deficiency Anemia Diagnosed?
Iron-deficiency anemia is diagnosed by blood tests that should include a complete blood count (CBC). Additional tests may be ordered to evaluate the levels of serum ferritin, iron, total iron-binding capacity, and/or transferrin.
Anemia occurs when your blood doesn't have enough red blood cells. This can happen if: Your body doesn't make enough red blood cells. Bleeding causes you to lose red blood cells more quickly than they can be replaced. Your body destroys red blood cells.
Stages
Stage 1: Diminished total-body iron content. This stage is identified by a reduction in serum ferritin
Stage 2: Reduced red blood cell formation
Stage 3: Iron deficiency anemia.
