Iron deficiency in heart failure: a 2020 update

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Hematology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Iron deficiency (ID) is a common comorbidity in heart failure (HF) patients.
• ID negatively affects HF symptoms and patient outcomes.
• Recent research has elucidated mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for ID in HF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in understanding and managing iron deficiency in heart failure.
• To summarize novel findings on the mechanisms of ID in HF.
• To discuss the efficacy of intravenous iron therapy in HF patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of experimental studies and randomized clinical trials.
• Synthesis of new data on ID in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
• Overview of ongoing clinical trials investigating ID in HF.

Main Results:

• Novel insights into the pathophysiology of ID in HF have emerged.
• Intravenous iron therapy demonstrates significant benefits for HF patients.
• Updated evidence supports current European Society of Cardiology guidelines on ID screening and treatment in HFrEF.

Conclusions:

• Iron deficiency is a critical factor influencing heart failure management.
• Intravenous iron is a valuable therapeutic option for HF patients with ID.
• Continued research and clinical trials are essential to further optimize care for ID in HF.