Serum transferrin receptor appears to be specific and sensitive marker
of iron deficiency in pregnancy. Its levels are increased in iron
deficiency anemia Bone marrow examination by staining with
potassium ferrocyanate to see characteristic blue granules of stainable
iron in, erythroblasts is the most accurate method for iron stores, but
is not practical in most cases as the test is invasive, Bone marrow,
examination is only dated in cases where there is no response to iron
therapy after 4 weeks or for diagnosis of Kala-azar or in suspected
aplastic anemia11. As worm infestations are common causes of anemia,
stool examination for ova and cysts should be done consecutively
for 3 days in all cases. In areas where schistosomiasis is prevalent,
urine examination for occult blood and schistosomes should be
performed. As malaria is an important cause of anemia peripheral
blood should be examined for malarial parasites in the case.
Significant bacteriuria should also be ruled out. If the clinical scenario
demands, other tests can be done, such as sputum examination and
chest X-ray for pulmonary tuberculosis (abdominal shielding should
be done), renal function tests in suspected renal disease and serum
proteins in hypoproteinemia.