[Iron deficiency in heart failure - a practical guide for diagnosis and therapy]

A common comorbidity in heart failure is iron deficiency, which aggravates the symptoms of heart failure and is associated with increased hospital admissions. Iron deficiency is easily treatable, but is often overlooked or only addressed after iron deficiency anemia has already developed.

Data from randomized trials on intravenous iron therapy were analyzed and discussed at a scientific symposium. A practical concept for outpatient intravenous iron therapy was developed in accordance with the study protocols and the product information.

Intravenous iron therapy reduces hospitalizations in patients with heart failure with an ejection fraction < 45% and documented iron deficiency, with and without iron deficiency anemia. This publication is intended as a practical approach for guideline-compliant iron management in outpatient heart failure care.