Iron-Deficiency Anemia Guide
What it is
Iron-deficiency anemia is reduced hemoglobin due to depleted iron stores.
Diagnostic basics
- Low ferritin and/or iron studies consistent with deficiency
- Evaluate for bleeding and malabsorption causes when appropriate
Treatment approach
- Oral iron repletion as first-line in many stable patients
- IV iron when oral therapy fails, intolerance is severe, or rapid repletion is needed
Nutrition support
- Improve dietary iron intake and pair with vitamin C-containing foods
- Separate iron from major absorption inhibitors when feasible
Monitoring and follow-up
- Reticulocyte/hemoglobin response, ferritin recovery, tolerance, and adherence