[Treatment and prevention of iron deficiency anemia]

The paper covers present-day methods of diagnosis, treatment, primary and secondary prophylaxis of iron deficiency anemia. Serum ferritin determination useful for evaluating total iron deposits in the body is thought to allow early diagnosis. Oral administration of iron preparations is recommended as more advantageous. It is emphasized that the disease treatment should not be discontinued after recovery of normal hemoglobin values. The next therapeutic measures are to provide normal levels of serum iron and ferritin.