The Modulation of Euglycemic Endocrine and Exocrine Pancreatic Secretions in Iron Deficiency

Abstract

Objectives: The contribution of pancreatic secretions in iron metabolism has been elucidated, but the clinical outcomes of iron deficiency on pancreatic function are debatable. This study aimed to investigate the modulation of euglycemic endocrine and exocrine pancreatic excretions in response to variations in iron availability. Subjects and Methods: Serum levels of insulin, glucagon, insulin-to-glucagon ratio (IGR), and amylase were determined in 170 adult subjects with variable levels of serum iron. Results: Control (n = 46) and iron-deficient (n = 124) subjects had significant differences (p r = −0.645, p r = 0.653, p Conclusion: Iron deficiency is associated with an adaptive modulation of euglycemic endocrine and exocrine secretions that is consistent with a status of insulin resistance.