@yisabess Oh, only the consult. Expect the doctor to order tests for a later date. A bone marrow aspiration may be ordered. I'm not familiar with sideroblast, but believe it is a bone marrow deficiency. My husband has had five aspirations; very painful for him so he asks for sedation which is performed in the Mayo building, I think in a day surgery area... he's not getting an aspiration in the clinic exam room again - it would be local anesthetic only, but can be easily done by a NP if you think you are up to it. Think about your pain tolerance before you schedule this.

A place you might start for reading material: https://mayoclinic.elsevierpure.com/en/publications/treatment-of-acquired-sideroblastic-anemias/

Be assured that your Mayo experience will result in a diagnosis that is not "maybe" or "kinda" or incomplete. They will know exactly what you have, and will walk you through beginning and later treatments. Ask many questions!

I'd want to know specifically what the bone marrow biopsy revealed. Is it acquired or hereditary; what specific treatment is advised first & how long before it's reasonable for it to "kick in"; what side effects; how often to check blood levels; can you get an order for blood tests at a lab close to home; what about iron/chelation?, what to avoid when taking vitamins, how to identify and manage fatigue caused by the condition, will blood transfusions help, food to avoid.... well I'm getting in the weeds here- but I've learned to ask every question I can think of... don't go home wishing you'd asked. But if you have questions later, you can ask through a Message on the portal to get answers that you can see and think over.

You will have a successful day at Mayo. I am confident the Heme doctors have seen your condition a multitude of times & they know just what to do!

@yisabess, how are you doing? Have you had your appointment or is it coming up?