Iron deficiency anaemia: pathophysiology, assessment, practical management

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Nutritional Science
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting 30% of the global population.
• Common causes include gastrointestinal bleeding and menstruation, alongside reduced dietary iron intake and absorption.
• IDA is frequently observed in chronic inflammatory conditions such as congestive cardiac failure, chronic kidney disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated overview of the diagnosis and management of IDA.
• To focus on specific patient cohorts: those with chronic conditions, preoperative patients, and pregnant individuals.
• To compare the benefits, limitations, and cost-effectiveness of oral versus intravenous iron replacement therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current diagnostic and management strategies for IDA.
• Analysis of treatment approaches for IDA in distinct clinical scenarios.
• Comparative assessment of oral and intravenous iron formulations, including cost analysis.

Main Results:

• IDA management aims to restore iron stores and normalize hemoglobin levels, improving quality of life and health outcomes.
• Specific considerations for IDA diagnosis and treatment exist for patients with chronic inflammatory diseases, those undergoing surgery, and pregnant women.
• Both oral and intravenous iron therapies have distinct advantages and disadvantages, with varying cost implications.

Conclusions:

• Optimal management of IDA requires tailored approaches based on patient-specific factors and clinical context.
• Intravenous iron may be preferred in certain populations or when oral iron is ineffective or poorly tolerated.
• A comprehensive understanding of iron formulations and cost is crucial for effective and economical IDA treatment.