Iron stores assessed in blood donors by hematofluorometry

Body iron stores in blood donors were assessed using front-face fluorometric assays of erythrocyte protoporphyrin/heme ratios. Comparison was made with hemoglobin levels and serum ferritin assays. Erythrocyte protoporphyrin/heme assays provide quick and reliable information about possible underlying iron deficiency in the absence of anemia, particularly in regular blood donors.