OUTCOME OF UPPER AND LOWER GI ENDOSCOPIES IN PATIENTS WITH MICROCYTIC ANEMIA

Abstract

Background:
Microcytic anemia is a common clinical condition often caused by gastrointestinal (GI) blood loss. Upper and lower GI endoscopies are essential diagnostic tools for identifying underlying pathologies in these patients.

Objective:
This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic yield of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy in patients with microcytic anemia.

Methods:
A prospective observational study was conducted on 150 adult patients with confirmed microcytic anemia (MCV < 80 fL). All patients underwent both EGD and colonoscopy. Data on demographic characteristics, clinical findings, and endoscopic results were analyzed.

Results:
EGD detected abnormalities in 78.7% of cases, with peptic ulcers (30%) and gastritis (23.3%) being the most frequent findings. Colonoscopy revealed pathologies in 48% of patients, including colonic polyps (20%) and angiodysplasia (10%). Combined endoscopies identified a potential bleeding source in 68% of patients, with upper GI lesions (48%) more prevalent than lower GI lesions (20%). Normal findings were observed in 32% of cases.

Conclusion:
Upper GI endoscopy demonstrated a higher diagnostic yield than colonoscopy in patients with microcytic anemia. Combined endoscopic evaluation is crucial for identifying GI sources of blood loss, though non-GI causes should also be considered in cases with normal findings. These results support the routine use of dual endoscopy in the diagnostic workup of microcytic anemia.