Iron Deficiency Treatment in Heart Failure-Challenges and Therapeutic Solutions

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Hematology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Iron deficiency (ID) is prevalent in heart failure (HF), impacting nearly 50% of patients.
• ID exacerbates HF symptoms, diminishes exercise capacity, and negatively affects patient prognosis.
• Understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of ID in HF is crucial for patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent evidence on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of ID in HF.
• To summarize findings from meta-analyses, clinical trials, and guidelines.
• To highlight the role of intravenous iron therapy in managing ID in HF patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent meta-analyses, clinical trials, and treatment guidelines.
• Analysis of evidence regarding the causes of ID in HF.
• Evaluation of diagnostic criteria and therapeutic interventions for ID in HF.

Main Results:

• ID in HF stems from chronic inflammation, intestinal congestion, and altered iron metabolism.
• Diagnosis relies on serum ferritin and transferrin saturation (TSAT) levels.
• Intravenous iron (ferric carboxymaltose, ferric derisomaltose) improves symptoms, exercise tolerance, and reduces hospitalizations, unlike oral iron.

Conclusions:

• Timely diagnosis and treatment of ID in HF are essential for improving patient well-being.
• Intravenous iron administration is the preferred treatment for ID in HF.
• Further research is necessary to optimize the long-term management strategies for ID in heart failure patients.