FaridabadBy Dr B.C. Gupta, MD · 2026-09-01
Ask the Pathologist - MCQ of the Week. A short question to test how well you know common laboratory tests, with a plain-English explanation from Dr B.C. Gupta, MD (Pathology).
Q. Which pair of tests is most likely to be included together when your doctor investigates anaemia?
- A. Ferritin and Vitamin B12
- B. Uric acid and Lipid profile
- C. TSH and ESR
- D. Amylase and Lipase
Answer: A. Ferritin and Vitamin B12
Anaemia means you do not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen around the body. The most common causes are low iron and low vitamin B12 (or folate). Ferritin reflects the body’s iron stores, and the vitamin B12 level checks for B12 deficiency. Ordering them together, usually along with a complete blood count, helps the doctor find which cause is behind the anaemia.
Both tests use a simple blood draw. As with any report, the results are best interpreted along with your symptoms and your doctor’s examination, not as a single number.
If you have been asked to check for anaemia, a blood test is simple and quick. Call the centre to confirm preparation and timing before you visit.
