Endoscopic findings in patients referred to gastroenterology for iron deficiency: A single-center experience

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopic findings and histopathological results of adult patients referred to the gastroenterology clinic due to iron deficiency anemia. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included 1084 adult patients over the age of 18 who underwent endoscopic procedures due to iron deficiency anemia between January 2023 and January 2025 at the Gastroenterology Endoscopy Unit of Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty. Demographic data, endoscopic findings, and pathology results were analyzed. Pathological evaluation was performed only in patients with available biopsy or polypectomy results. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Upper GI endoscopy was performed in 55.4% of patients, colonoscopy in 49.7%, and both procedures in 27.5%. The most common endoscopic findings were pangastritis (60.2%), gastric erosion (20.7%), colonic polyp (28.4%), and diverticulosis (11.9%). The most frequent histopathological findings were chronic gastritis (92.6%), Helicobacter pylori (28.4%), intestinal metaplasia (24.7%), and adenomatous polyps. Gastric adenocarcinoma was detected in 0.5% and colorectal adenocarcinoma in 1.3% of patients. Significant pathological lesions were more frequently observed in patients over 50 years of age. Conclusion: Endoscopic evaluation in iron deficiency anemia is highly valuable, particularly in elderly patients. Combined upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy improves diagnostic yield. A personalized endoscopic approach based on age and gender is recommended for optimal clinical management. Keywords: İron deficiency anemia,endoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, colonoscopy