The last stage of iron deficiency anemia is stage 5, where iron deficiency affects tissues, resulting in symptoms and signs.
Based on the provided reference, iron deficiency anemia progresses through several stages. Here's a breakdown:
- Stage 3: Anemia develops, but the red blood cells (RBCs) appear normal, and their indices are also normal.
- Stage 4: The red blood cells become smaller than normal (microcytosis) and then paler than normal (hypochromia).
- Stage 5: Iron deficiency affects tissues, leading to noticeable symptoms and signs of anemia.
In summary, while the process leading to anemia begins earlier, the final stage (Stage 5) is marked by the manifestation of symptoms due to iron deficiency impacting bodily tissues.
