Iron deficiency anemia

Abstract

The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia has decreased in recent years because of improved dietary habits. Yet, iron deficiency anemia is still the most common anemia. Among mature adults, anemia of chronic disease is probably more common. Mean corpuscular volume and red cell distribution width, along with a peripheral smear examination, can often distinguish iron deficiency anemia from other common microcytic anemias, such as thalassemia minor. A normal serum iron level excludes iron deficiency anemia and indicates other causes for microcytic anemia. Often, a low serum iron level and total iron-binding capacity are due to chronic disease, and measurement of serum ferritin or a bone marrow stain for hemosiderin will be necessary to diagnose iron deficiency. Iron therapy to restore the red cell mass should be continued until iron stores are replenished.

Safety and Usefulness of Intravenous Iron Sucrose in the Management of Preoperative Anemia in Patients with Menorrhagia: A Phase IV, Open-Label, Prospective, Randomized Study

“…Contrary to previous studies [7, 8, 10], compliance with oral iron treatment was considerably high compared with the intravenous iron treatment (70.3 vs. 76.9%, respectively) in our study. It is difficult to explain, but it should be emphasized that the women waiting for surgery were highly motivated and had a fear of the potential risk of transfusion.…”

“…However, oral iron replacement therapy is limited by poor absorption and gastrointestinal disturbances, thereby straining resources of clinicians and challenging the patient’s compliance [8,9,10]. …”

Minerals: Iron

“…Shakespearean heroines and heroes, disappointed by love, were smitten by the green sickness (Farley & Foland 1990). It is said the Persian physician Melampus in 4000 bc gave iron supplements to sailors who bled in battle.…”