Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

For patients with iron deficiency anemia, how long should treatment with ferrous sulfate typically continue?

1. At least 3 months

2. At least 6 months

3. Until symptoms resolve

4. Only during pregnancy

The correct answer is: At least 6 months

For patients with iron deficiency anemia, treatment with ferrous sulfate should typically continue for at least six months after hemoglobin levels return to normal. This duration ensures that not only is the existing anemia adequately treated but also that iron stores are replenished. After correcting the hemoglobin, there is still a possibility that ferritin levels (which reflect the body's iron stores) may take longer to normalize. Continuing treatment for this period helps prevent the risk of relapse and ensures that the body has an adequate supply of iron. Although some may consider only treating until symptoms resolve, this could lead to insufficient replenishment of iron stores, making recurrence of anemia more likely. Treatment duration is not limited to pregnancy, as iron deficiency anemia can occur in various situations, including dietary inadequacies, chronic blood loss, and other medical conditions. Therefore, the recommended guideline emphasizes maintaining treatment for at least six months to address both the immediate and longer-term needs of the patient.