Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron Deficiency Anemia Introduction

• Iron Deficiency Anemia occurs  the body lacks enough iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.
• Iron is a critical component of hemoglobin, and its deficiency leads to reduced RBC production and anemia.

Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia:

• It can result from several factors:
  1. Inadequate Iron Intake: Poor dietary intake of iron-rich foods.
  2. Increased Iron Demand: During periods of rapid growth (infancy, adolescence), pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
  3. Chronic Blood Loss: Gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., ulcers, colon cancer), heavy menstrual bleeding, or frequent blood donations.
  4. Malabsorption: Conditions like celiac disease or surgeries affecting the stomach or intestines that impair iron absorption.

Pathophysiology

• Reduced Hemoglobin Synthesis: It can decrease hemoglobin production, resulting in smaller and paler RBCs (microcytic hypochromic anemia).
• Ineffective Erythropoiesis: The bone marrow produces fewer and less effective RBCs, leading to anemia and decreased oxygen delivery to tissues.

Symptoms

• Common symptoms include:
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Pale skin and mucous membranes
  • Shortness of breath and dizziness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Brittle nails and hair loss
  • Pica (craving for non-food items like ice, dirt, or starch)
  • Restless legs syndrome

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves:
  1. Complete Blood Count (CBC): Low hemoglobin, hematocrit, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV).
  2. Serum Ferritin: Low ferritin levels indicate depleted iron stores.
  3. Serum Iron and Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC): Low serum iron and high TIBC.
  4. Peripheral Blood Smear: Microcytic, hypochromic RBCs.

Treatment

• Treatment focuses on replenishing iron stores and addressing the underlying cause:
  1. Dietary Changes: Increase intake of iron-rich foods (red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, green leafy vegetables).
  2. Iron Supplements: Oral ferrous sulfate is commonly used.
  3. Intravenous Iron: For severe cases or when oral iron is not tolerated or effective.
  4. Treat Underlying Causes: Address sources of bleeding or malabsorption issues.

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