Consensus Statement on the definition and classification of metabolic hyperferritinaemia

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Diseases
• Iron Metabolism

Background:

• Hyperferritinaemia is frequently observed in patients with metabolic dysfunction and fatty liver.
• It signifies altered iron metabolism, leading to iron accumulation and increased risk of cardiometabolic and liver diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on hyperferritinaemia, iron accumulation, and clinical outcomes in metabolic dysfunction.
• To propose an updated definition and provisional staging system for metabolic hyperferritinaemia.
• To identify unmet needs and suggest future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on metabolic hyperferritinaemia, iron metabolism, and associated diseases.
• Consensus-based proposal of a definition and staging system by a multidisciplinary expert panel.

Main Results:

• Genetic factors significantly influence serum ferritin levels in metabolic dysfunction.
• Iron accumulation is hypothesized to play a role in insulin resistance and organ damage.
• Current diagnostic criteria and evidence for iron depletion therapy are lacking.

Conclusions:

• An updated definition and staging system for metabolic hyperferritinaemia are proposed.
• Further research is needed on epidemiology, genetics, pathophysiology, and treatment.
• Standardized approaches are crucial for advancing the understanding and management of metabolic hyperferritinaemia.