In the treatment of simple hypochromic, microcytic anemia due to chronic blood loss, which is the treatment of choice?

• A. Vitamin B12
• B. Ferrous sulfate
• C. Folic acid
• D. Erythropoietin

Answer: (B)

Iron deficiency from chronic blood loss drives a hypochromic, microcytic anemia, so the treatment focuses on replenishing iron stores to restore hemoglobin synthesis. Ferrous sulfate provides the elemental iron needed for red blood cell production, correcting the deficiency and steadily improving hemoglobin and red cell indices as stores are rebuilt. The other options address different types of anemia or situations: vitamin B12 and folic acid treat macrocytic/megaloblastic anemias and won’t correct iron deficiency, while erythropoietin stimulates red cell production but is not the primary treatment for uncomplicated iron deficiency due to blood loss. Alongside iron therapy, identifying and treating the source of blood loss is essential.