Anaemia History Taking – How to Diagnose & Manage in OSCEs | OSCE Talk

In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter explore anaemia — one of the most common presentations in clinical medicine and a frequent OSCE topic.

You’ll learn how to take a focused anaemia history, recognise key symptoms and red flags, and confidently approach diagnosis and management in both exams and real-life settings.

We cover the main types of anaemia — microcytic, normocytic, and macrocytic — along with essential investigations and a step-by-step approach to managing iron deficiency anaemia. The episode ends with a realistic case example to help you structure your answers and boost OSCE confidence.

• Understand how anaemia presents and why it’s important in OSCEs.

• Use a structured approach to history taking and investigation.

• Recognise common causes like iron deficiency, chronic disease, and B12/folate deficiency.

• Identify red flags such as bleeding, weight loss, or unexplained fatigue.

• Know your core investigations – FBC, MCV, ferritin, and reticulocytes.

• Learn the management steps for iron deficiency anaemia.

• Apply your knowledge with a case-based example for practical learning.

00:00 – What Is Anaemia?
02:44 – Causes of Anaemia
05:34 – How to Take an Anaemia History
08:41 – Investigations and Diagnosis
11:51 – Management Strategies
14:45 – Case Study Example

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Always refer to appropiate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.