Lab Tests
In addition to blood tests and imaging techniques, there are many other lab tests that can help diagnose anemia:
– Urinalysis: This test requires a urine sample to identify blood in your urine. It can also diagnose other issues that would cause anemia, such as bladder problems or urinary tract infection.
– Liver function test: Heavy alcohol consumption and liver failure are two major risk factors for anemia. A Liver function test would determine whether you have liver disease or not.
– Electrolyte levels: The test could identify many medical issues that are related to anemia like systemic illnesses or serious kidney disease.
– Erythropoietin: This is a specialized lab test that can determine the amount of EPO. This hormone can stimulate the bone marrow to generate RBCs.
– Colonoscopy: Your doctor would need a colonoscopy to look for active bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
– Genetic test: Anemia can be caused by several genetic conditions. Thus, a doctor might take some genetic tests to diagnose the condition. [5]
