Iron deficiency

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Nutritional Science
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a widespread global health issue affecting over 1.2 billion individuals.
• Iron deficiency, with or without anemia, is prevalent and caused by increased requirements, reduced intake, malabsorption, or blood loss.
• Physiological adaptations to iron deficiency involve tissue-level regulation by iron regulatory proteins and systemic control via the hormone hepcidin.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the causes, diagnosis, and management of absolute iron deficiency.
• To discuss current therapeutic strategies, including oral and intravenous iron formulations.
• To highlight the importance of personalized treatment approaches considering individual patient factors and risks.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of iron deficiency pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment modalities.
• Analysis of current clinical guidelines and research on iron replacement therapies.
• Evaluation of the risks and benefits associated with different iron treatment options.

Main Results:

• Diagnosis of iron deficiency is straightforward unless masked by inflammation.
• Treatment requires addressing the underlying cause and optimizing iron therapy.
• Intravenous (IV) iron, particularly high-dose single infusions of newer compounds, offers a rapid and effective alternative to oral iron with an acceptable safety profile.

Conclusions:

• All iron deficiency cases necessitate evaluation for underlying causes and appropriate treatment.
• Optimizing oral iron therapy involves considering hepcidin physiology and minimizing adverse effects.
• A personalized therapeutic approach weighing risks and benefits is crucial for managing iron deficiency effectively.