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Mariam Swidan: IDA vs Thalassemia Trait-Disease Overview
Mariam Swidan/LinkedIn
May 17, 2026, 15:03

Mariam Swidan: IDA vs Thalassemia Trait-Disease Overview

Mariam Swidan, Biomedical Science Graduate, Clinical Laboratory Professional, shared a post on LinkedIn:

”IDA vs Thalassemia Trait-Disease Overview

Two patients.

Both have microcytic hypochromic anemia…

but completely different diagnoses.

Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA)

One of the most common anemias worldwide.

Caused by insufficient iron, leading to lower hemoglobin synthesis – smaller, paler RBCs

Typical labs:

  • Lower Hb
  • Lower MCV
  • High RDW
  • Lower ferritin
  • High TIBC

 Key idea: production becomes progressively abnormal – mixed RBC sizes (high RDW) Thalassemia Trait

A genetic disorder affecting globin chain synthesis

Defective globin production – lower hemoglobin – smaller, paler RBCs

Typical labs:

  • Lower MCV (often very low )
  • Normal or mildly lower  Hb
  • RDW normal (or slightly high)
  • Normal ferritin

Key idea: production is consistently abnormal- uniform RBC size (normal RDW)

Why this matters

Misdiagnosing thalassemia as IDA equals unnecessary iron therapy

Missing IDA equals untreated deficiency with real consequences

Same MCV. Different mechanism. Different management.”

Mariam Swidan: IDA vs Thalassemia Trait-Disease Overview

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