Iron Metabolism, Iron Deficiency and Anemia — From Diagnosis to Treatment and Monitoring

• Iron Metabolism, Iron Deficiency and Anemia — From Diagnosis to Treatment and Monitoring

AUTHOR(S)

Rolf HINZMANN

Sysmex Europe GmbH

SUMMARY

This review explains why iron is such an important trace element, what its main functions are and how iron is transported and used within the body. The reasons for iron deficiency and its medical consequences are described. The classical diagnostic tools to assess iron metabolism are of limited value.Alternative modern haematological markers are now available which can help to classify correctly, treat and monitor patients with iron deficiency.

KEY WORDS

Iron Metabolism, Iron Deficiency, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Anemia of Chronic Disease, Reticulocyte Hemoglobin Content