Diagnosis Of Iron Deficiency Anemia Research Articles

Role of Intravenous Iron in Current Era

Iron is an essential trace mineral necessary for life, and iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is one of the most common haematological problems worldwide. Oral iron replacement therapy is a simple, inexpensive treatment option for the treatment of iron deficiency in stable patients, but there are many populations for whom IV iron is more effective. Therefore, IV iron should be considered when there are no contraindications, when poor response to oral iron is anticipated, when rapid hematologic responses are desired. Third generation intravenous (IV) iron therapies allow rapid and complete replacement dosing without the toxicity issues inherent with older iron preparations. This review provides an updated overview on diagnosis and management of IDA in patients with chronic conditions, preoperative and considers the properties of the different IV irons, and how differences might impact current and future clinical practice. We will discuss the benefits and limitations of oral versus intravenous iron replacement. Keywords: Anaemia; Intravenous Iron; Iron Deficiency; Oral Iron

Early identification of patients at risk for iron-deficiency anemia using deep learning techniques.

Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common health problem worldwide, and up to 10% of adult patients with incidental IDA may have gastrointestinal cancer. A diagnosis of IDA can be established through a combination of laboratory tests, but it is often underrecognized until a patient becomes symptomatic. Based on advances in machine learning, we hypothesized that we could reduce the time to diagnosis by developing an IDA prediction model. Our goal was to develop 3 neural networks by using retrospective longitudinal outpatient laboratory data to predict the risk of IDA 3 to 6 months before traditional diagnosis. We analyzed retrospective outpatient electronic health record data between 2009 and 2020 from an academic medical center in northern Texas. We included laboratory features from 30,603 patients to develop 3 types of neural networks: artificial neural networks, long short-term memory cells, and gated recurrent units. The classifiers were trained using the Adam Optimizer across 200 random training-validation splits. We calculated accuracy, area under the receiving operating characteristic curve, sensitivity, and specificity in the testing split. Although all models demonstrated comparable performance, the gated recurrent unit model outperformed the other 2, achieving an accuracy of 0.83, an area under the receiving operating characteristic curve of 0.89, a sensitivity of 0.75, and a specificity of 0.85 across 200 epochs. Our results showcase the feasibility of employing deep learning techniques for early prediction of IDA in the outpatient setting based on sequences of laboratory data, offering a substantial lead time for clinical intervention.

Clinical Application of Reticulocyte Maturity Indices in Early Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anemia in the First Trimester of Pregnancy

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent global health issue, particularly affecting pregnant females due to increased iron demands during pregnancy. In Pakistan, IDA remains a significant concern, posing challenges to maternal and child health. Early detection and management of iron deficiency are crucial for improving pregnancy outcomes.
 Objective: This study aims to investigate the iron status and associated hematological parameters among pregnant females during the first trimester in Islamabad, Pakistan.
 Methodology : This cross-sectional study, conducted in collaboration with the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), aimed to investigate the iron status among first-trimester pregnant females in Islamabad, Pakistan.Laboratory investigations encompassed hemoglobin and serum ferritin assays, reticulocyte counts, and other red blood cell parameters. Participants were categorized into distinct iron status groups based on these evaluations. Utilizing SPSS version 25, statistical analysis followed ethical protocols, striving to uncover discrepancies in hematological parameters across the various iron status groups.
 Results : Among 340 first-trimester pregnant women, three iron status groups were identified. Group 1 (n = 102) had low ferritin despite normal Hb, with elevated immature reticulocytes. Group 2 (n = 150) showed normal iron parameters, while Group 3 (n = 88) had high reticulocyte counts. Group 2 exhibited superior erythrocyte indices and higher ferritin levels than Groups 1 and 3. Group 3 displayed the poorest indices and elevated immature reticulocytes. These findings highlight variations in iron status and reticulocyte maturation among pregnant women.
 Conclusion: This study underscores the high prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among first-trimester pregnant females in Islamabad, Pakistan. Variations in red blood cell parameters and serum ferritin levels highlight the importance of early iron status assessment for optimizing maternal and foetal health outcomes.

Monitoring of iron deficiency in highly skilled martial artists

High-level sport is characterized by a significant level of both physical and nervous-emotional load, which puts forward high demands on the body of athletes. That is why athletes can be prone to iron deficiency conditions and anemia, especially women. The presence of iron deficiency can have serious consequences for athletes (increased risk of injury, slowing down the recovery process after physical loads, reduced immunity, and a significant decrease in performance). In turn, the problem is aggravated by the fact that iron deficiency in athletes can often exist without the manifestation of anemia and has a hidden course. This has necessitated detailed studies of athletes to identify conditions related to iron deficiency. The purpose of the study: determine the indicators of "red" blood, ferritin, and iron content in highly qualified athletes who specialize in martial arts to identify iron deficiency states to further establish the possible causes that can lead to their occurrence. The study involved 35 qualified athletes specializing in martial arts, including 20 men and 15 women. The following blood values were determined: ferritin concentration, hemoglobin, iron content, red blood cell count, and hematocrit level. As a result of our study, it was found that 20% of men and 66% of women studied had latent iron deficiency, which requires appropriate recommendations for treatment and prevention. Research results confirm the presence of iron deficiency problems among athletes (especially women). The findings indicate the importance not only of diagnosing iron deficiency anemia in athletes but also of paying attention to identifying latent iron deficiency. This will ensure timely diagnosis, correct therapy, and prevention of iron deficiency in athletes.

The Role of Hepcidin, sTfR, and sTfR/Log Ferritin Index for the Differential Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anemia and Anemia of Chronic Disease

Background: In chronic diseases characterized by persistent inflammation, anemia of chronic disease (ACD) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are commonly encountered forms of anemia and can often co-occur. In such situations, the conventional iron status tests used for differential diagnosis are influenced by inflammation, reducing their diagnostic accuracy. The primary objective of this study was to assess the significance of hepcidin as a crucial diagnostic marker for ACD and to investigate the correlation between hepcidin and inflammation-related indicators. Furthermore, a significant secondary aim of this research was to ascertain the diagnostic role of novel biochemical markers, specifically soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) and the derived sTfR/log ferritin index (sTfR-F index). Methods and Results: This study was conducted at the Laboratory Service of the University Hospital Center "Mother Teresa" and included a cohort of 187 subjects, comprising 156 patients (83 females and 73 males) who were admitted to and received treatment at the Rheumatology and Cardiology Departments of the "Mother Teresa" University Hospital Center in Tirana. Additionally, 31 individuals without anemia and inflammatory conditions were included as a control group. All subjects incorporated into the study were classified into five distinct groups based on a comprehensive analysis of their complete blood profiles, iron status, and inflammation-related biomarkers: IDA, ACD, ACD+IDA, RA/CHF patients without anemia, and the control group without anemia. The comparison between groups showed that the mean values of pro-hepcidin, TNFα, IL6, Hs-PCR, and ferritin are significantly decreased in IDA vs. ACD, while sTFR and sTfR-F index are significantly increased. In comparing ACD vs. ACD+IDA groups, ferritin increased significantly in the ACD group, while sTFR and sTfR-F index decreased significantly in ACD, compared to the ACD+IDA group. The ROC curves analysis of the biochemical parameters selected for the comparison of ACD vs IDA showed that the pro-hepcidin test is a perfect test for the differential diagnosis of ACD vs. IDA. The suggested cut-off value for pro-hepcidin was ≥153 ng/ml, yielding a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 100% for the diagnosis of ACD. As regards sTFR, the suggested cut-off value for the diagnosis of IDA vs. ACD was≥ 4.9 µg/ml resulting in 84% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The sTfR-F index was also very useful for the diagnosis of IDA vs. ACD: for a cut-off value of ≥2.06, the sensitivity was 90% and the specificity was 96%. sTfR resulted in a good test for the diagnosis of ACD+IDA vs. ACD: the cut-off value was ≥ 3.7µ/ml, the sensitivity was 92.3% and the specificity was 93.2%. Similarly, the parameter sTfR-F index resulted in a very good test for the diagnosis of ACD+IDA vs. ACD: for the suggested cut-off value of ≥2.3, the sensitivity was 92.3% and the specificity was 100%. Conclusion: As a result of the study, it was found that the pro-hepcidin test was a highly accurate test for distinguishing between ACD and IDA. Meanwhile, sTfR and the sTfR-F index proved to be excellent indicators for the differential diagnosis of IDA in chronic inflammatory conditions.

Clinical case of delayed diagnosis of celiac enteropathy

Clinical case of delayed diagnosis of celiac enteropathy

Validity of Mentzer Index in Predicting Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Mentzer index as a screening tool for iron deficiency anaemia, using an iron profile as the gold standard in patients presenting with hypochromic microcytic anaemia. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pediatrics, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Dec 2021 to May 2022. Methodology: Data was collected from 163 patients with hypochromic microcytic anaemia. Red cell indices were noted for each patient and recorded on a defined proforma. Results: The mean age of the patients was 8.23±3.57 years. 85(52.1%) patients were males and 78(47.9%) were females. Moreover, out of 163 patients, the specificity, sensitivity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of the Mentzer index for the diagnosis of iron deficiency anaemia were 90.1%, 90.1%, 84.6%, 93.8%, and 90.8%, respectively. Conclusion: The cell-count-based indices, especially the Mentzer index, are reliable and available methods for diagnosing iron deficiency anaemia. They have an accurate discrimination ability.

DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY OF MENTZER INDEX AS A SCREENING TOOL FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA BY TAKING IRON PROFILE AS GOLD STANDARD IN PATIENTS PRESENTING WITH HYPOCHROMIC MICROCYTIC ANEMIA AT TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL, KARACHI

Anemia is the most prevalent haematological condition in newborns and children. A deficiency of iron necessary for synthesizing haemoglobin causes it. This study used the iron profile as the gold standard for patients with hypochromic microcytic anemia at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi to assess the Mentzer index's diagnostic accuracy for iron-deficient anemia. From January 2021 to December 2022, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, NICH, Karachi. With the patient's explicit consent, data was prospectively collected. Those who satisfied the diagnostic requirements totaled 163 patients. While frequency and percentages were used to represent qualitative factors, simple descriptive statistics with mean and standard deviation were used to convey quantitative data. The following metrics were calculated: diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and a significance level set at p-value ≤0.05. A total of 163 patients with hypochromic microcytic anemia were included in the study; their mean age was 8.23±3.57 years. 78 (47.9 percent) and 85 (52.1 percent) were female. For the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia, the Mentzer index's sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy were determined to be, respectively, 90.1 percent, 90.1 percent, 93.8 percent, 84.6 percent, and 90.8 percent. According to the study's findings, cell-count-based indices—in particular, the Mentzer index—are trustworthy, widely accessible techniques that have a high degree of discrimination power for identifying iron deficiency anemia.

Plasma D-Dimer Value Corrected with Some Physiological and Inflammatory Markers (C-Reactive Protein and Ferritin) in Iraqi Patients with COVID-19 Infection

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic it has been observed that patients have elevated plasma levels of D-dimer and some inflammatory markers (ferritin, interleukine 6, C-reactive protein (CRP) or fibrinogen). Some studies point to the existence of a certain correlation between those markers and D-dimer. CRP is a protein discovered in the 1930s by Tillett and Francis and is an acute phase reactant. It is a pentameric protein which is synthesized by the liver under the action of cytokine interleukin 6 (IL-6). D-dimers are multiple peptide fragments produced as a result of degradation of crosslinked fibrin, mediated by plasmin. A total of 60 patients were recruited and categorized into :1- group1 (controls), 2- group 2 (COVID-19 patients). 5 ml of blood was obtained from each patient by vein puncture, using 5 ml disposable syringes, then centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 10 minutes to collect the serum. D- dimer, C-reactive protein were measured by using (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mannheim, Germany). At the same time, the Ferritin was assessed by using a miniVIDAS analyzer for the fluorescent enzymatic detection of β2-microglobulin (β2M) using the technique. Enzyme Linked Fluorescent Assay (ELFA) (BioMerieux). Our results showed that there was a non- significant difference in the P-values between control and patients males and females. The Mean ± SE of age in control group was 45.90 ± 3.34, while the Mean ± SE of age in patients was 45.35 ± 2.52. There was a non- significant difference between the two groups, the Mean ± SE of CRP in control group was 5.04 ±0.81, while the Mean ± SE of CRP in COVID-19 patients was 37.16 ±3.24, there was a highly Significant differences between them (P≤0.01). The CRP of COVID-19 patients were compared with those of control patients, the results shows significant increased CRP in covid-19 patients group as a compression with the control group, the findings of the study is similar to Jacob Lentner, etal findings. In response to infections, the liver synthesizes significant quantities of acute-phase proteins (APPs), such as CRP. This acute inflammatory protein is a highly sensitive biomarker for inflammation, tissue damage, and infection. It has been shown that CRP levels are correlated with levels of inflammation. CRP levels can promote phagocytosis and activate the complement system. In other words, CRP binds to microorganisms and promotes their removal through phagocytosis. D-dimers are one of the fragments produced when plasmin cleaves fibrin to break down clots. Our study showed that the serum D-dimer concentrations in patients significantly higher than those in control group which is similar to Mamta Soni, etal, 2020 findings. Elevated D-dimer levels have emerged as a consistent finding in severely ill COVID-19 patients, Multiple studies have identified an association between higher D-dimer levels and an increased risk of mortality in the COVID-19 patient population. Ferritin is an iron-storing protein; its serum level reflects the normal iron level and helps the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia. Circulation ferritin level increases during viral infections and can be a marker of viral replication. Our study showed a significant increase in ferritin level in covid-19 patients group compared to control group, which consider similar to [] results. Although the exact cause for elevated ferritin in COVID-19 infection is unknown, it could be influenced by cytokine release or cellular damage that results in the leakage of intracellular ferritin. It has been previously shown that ferritin is a direct indicator of cellular damage suggestive of an association between organ damage and ferritin production. This could later cause cell death, known as ferroptosis. It is suggested that inflammation associated with sepsis could alter iron metabolism and deficiency to facilitate the immune system, which could be an early sign of COVID.

The Diagnostic Yield of Upper GI Endoscopy in Patients Iron Deficiency Anemia and/or Chronic Diarrhea

Aim of the study: According to published guidelines, an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy with duodenal biopsy sampling should be performed in patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and/or chronic diarrhea. The cost-effectiveness of this strategy in the absence of obvious endoscopic reason explaining patients’ symptoms has not been thoroughly investigated. Aim of our study was to access the clinical benefit of such a strategy. Patients-Methods: All patients who underwent an upper GI endoscopy in our department due to IDA and/ or chronic diarrhea during a 5-year period (1/2015-12/2019) were included in our study. Epidemiological, endoscopic and histologic data were analyzed. Results: The indication for endoscopy was IDA in 350 and chronic diarrhea in 108 patients; histological reports were available in 311 and 100 patients, respectively. Visual abnormalities were observed in 157 patients (34.3% in total; IDA: 32.9%, chronic diarrhea: 38.9%) and were more frequent among males than females (44.6% vs 33.5%, p=0.019) and among older patients (mean age 60 vs 56 years old, p=0.006). The histology report provided a conclusive diagnosis in 71/413 patients (17.2% in total; IDA: 14.8 %, chronic diarrhea: 25%). Celiac disease (CD) was diagnosed in 7.5% of our total study group. Normal endoscopic appearance of the duodenum was observed in 33% of patients, while bulb atrophy was associated more frequently with a conclusive histological report compared to other or no endoscopic findings (23/63 or 36.5% vs 48/350 or 13,7%, p<0,001). Conclusions: Duodenal biopsy can aid significantly in the diagnosis of IDA or chronic diarrhea, even among patients without endoscopically abnormalities. Duodenal atrophy is an endoscopic marker that may lead to a conclusive histological diagnosis, most commonly CD, in 1 out of 3 patients

Markers of oxidative stress in children with iron deficiency anemia

BackgroundOxidative stress can occur in iron deficiency anemia (IDA), causing cellular injury. The primary objective of the study was to assess serum malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl as oxidants and glutathione reductase catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and vitamin C levels as antioxidants in patients with IDA and healthy controls; and secondary objectives were to observe the levels among the mild, moderate and severe category of IDA and their correlations with serum iron and ferritin. Material and methodsFifty-five patients of IDA and 50 healthy controls were enrolled. Diagnosis of IDA was made based on the cut-off values of low hemoglobin as per age, serum iron <30 μg/dL, ferritin <12 ng/mL, and transferrin saturation <16 %. Serum levels of MDA, protein carbonyl, glutathione reductase, catalase, SOD, and vitamin C were estimated. ResultsThe median age of patients and controls was 6 years. IDA patients had significantly raised mean levels of MDA (p < 0.001) and protein carbonyl (p < 0.001) and decreased glutathione reductase (p < 0.001), catalase (p < 0.001), SOD (p = 0.014) and vitamin C (p = 0.010) than controls. Parameters were comparable among mild, moderate, and severe degrees of IDA. Significantly negative correlations of MDA (r = −0. 713, p < 0.001, −0.683 p < 0.001) and protein carbonyl (r = −0.500, p < 0.001, - 0.519, p < 0.001) and positive correlations of glutathione reductase (r = 0.607, p < 0.001, 0.629, p < 0.001), catalase (r = 0.447, p < 0.001, 0.436, p < 0.001), SOD (r = 0.209, p = 0.032, 0.175, p = 0.075) and vitamin C (r = 0.233,p = 0.017, 0.197, p = 0.044) were observed with serum iron and ferritin, respectively. ConclusionOxidative stress exists in patients with IDA, unaffected by the severity of anemia, and has significant correlations with serum iron and ferritin concentrations.

Pagophagia: A case series

Pica, in the form of ingestion of various non-food items like clay, chalks, etc., is commonly reported in Indian settings, but its other variant, pagophagia (ice eating), gets attention rarely. This case series is about three female patients who presented in psychiatry outpatient clinics with various mental health issues and ice eating habits. A diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia was common among all three cases, and they were managed with oral iron supplementation along with appropriate psychiatric treatments. Pagophagia is an important clinical presentation to be looked for in the changing Indian society.

Reticulocyte Hemoglobin Content: Advancing the Frontiers in Iron-deficiency Anemia Diagnosis and Management

Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) is a global health concern, and its widespread prevalence and multifaceted impact on various populations, particularly in developing countries, underscore the urgency for efficient diagnostic and management strategies. While traditional diagnostic methods such as ferritin and transferrin saturation are fundamental, their limitations in sensitivity and specificity lead to challenges in the early detection and effective management of IDA. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of IDA, focusing on the evolution of diagnostic methods culminating in the utilization of reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) as a critical biomarker. The core of this review is the detailed examination of CHr as a biomarker. Its emergence has been pivotal due to its superior sensitivity and specificity in identifying iron deficiency and monitoring therapy efficacy. The review discusses the comparative advantages of CHr over conventional methods, including its ability to detect IDA at an earlier stage and its utility in varied demographic groups, such as children and pregnant women. Future research directions are proposed, including integration of CHr into routine clinical practice, cost-effectiveness analysis, and technological advancements for enhanced measurement and accessibility. In conclusion, CHr holds significant potential for revolutionizing IDA management, paving the way for more precise and personalized medical interventions, thereby improving patient outcomes in diverse populations.

Non-invasive iron deficiency diagnosis: a saliva-based approach using capillary flow microfluidics.

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a condition characterized by lower-than-average iron (Fe) levels in the body, affecting a substantial number of young children and pregnant women globally. Existing diagnostic methods for IDA rely on invasive analysis of stored Fe in ferritin from blood samples, posing challenges, especially for toddlers and young children. To address this issue, saliva has been proposed as a non-invasive sample matrix for IDA diagnosis. However, conventional Fe analysis techniques often necessitate complex and costly instrumentation. This study presents the first non-invasive, saliva-based preliminary screening test for IDA using a nitrocellulose lateral flow system. In this study, we introduce a novel approach using the ferroin reaction with bathophenanthroline (Bphen) and ferrous (Fe2+) ions to quantify Fe levels in saliva. Our methodology involves a capillary flow-driven microfluidic device integrated into a lateral flow system utilizing nitrocellulose membranes. Here, we present the first instance of saliva on a nitrocellulose substrate to detect salivary Fe levels. The optimized system yielded a linear response over the 1-200 ppm range in buffer solution, with a limit of detection (LoD) of 5.6 ppm. Furthermore, the system demonstrated a linear response in pooled saliva samples across the 1-1000 ppm range, with a LoD of 55.1 ppm. These results underscore the potential of our capillary flow-driven microfluidic device as a viable non-invasive diagnostic tool for IDA, particularly in remote and resource-limited settings.

Iron profile in sickle cell heterozygous children: A case control study

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide &amp; it is an important public health problem in developing countries like India. Normally chronic hemolytic anemia are iron loaded because of excessive breakdown of RBC &amp; increased frequency of blood transfusion, but there is small or no transfusion on sickle cell trait. This study has been done to see the iron profile among sickle cell trait children in western Odisha. To determine the iron profile in children with sickle cell trait &amp; normal healthy controls &amp; compare them. This was a case control study that has been conducted over a period of two years. A total of 202 subjects were included in the study; 102 of them were sickle cell heterozygous &amp; 100 of them were normal healthy controls. Iron deficiency anemia among sickle cell trait &amp; healthy controls were screened using various clinical &amp; laboratory criteria. A total of 202(n=202) study populations comprising of 102 sickle cell trait &amp; 100 normal study populations were screened. A little female preponderance (n=109, 54%) was observed in this study. Abnormalities in blood parameters like MCV, MCH, MCHC, Serum ferritin were found to be statistically significant (p&amp;#60;0.005). Others clinical features like pallor, picophagia, sore tongue, fatigue was also found to be statistically significant (p&amp;#60;0.005). Out of 202 study populations 17 out of 102 sickle cell trait cases &amp; 16 out of 100 normal controls were found to have Iron deficiency anemia. In this study it showed that there were many sickle cell trait patients who were actually iron deficient. These patients should be screened carefully to look for Iron deficiency anemia. Clinical parameters like pallor, fatigue, picophagia, sore tongue &amp; others laboratories parameters like MCV, MCH, MCHC, Serum ferritin were helpful in diagnosing Iron deficiency anemia.

Relation of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pre-Menopause Women with Calcium and Vitamin D Levels at Teaching Hospital

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common condition influenced by various factors, such as age, symptom duration, and other biochemical markers. Premenopausal women often experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS), which is frequently associated with reduced blood levels of calcium and vitamin D. Given the worldwide public health concern of osteoporosis, understanding lifetime preventive measures is crucial. Methods: This study aimed to explore the relationship between IDA and various clinical characteristics in 161 participants. We evaluated parameters including age, symptom duration, and levels of calcium and vitamin D to identify potential associations with IDA. Data for the 161 patients were collected using a predesigned proforma, as approved by the ethics committee. The Chi-square test was employed to determine statistical significance, with a P-value threshold set at 0.05. Results: The average age of participants was 38.6 years, with the majority (58.4%) reporting symptoms for an average duration of 58.4 months. Among them, 54% had confirmed cases of IDA. However, there was no significant age-related correlation with IDA. Notably, a strong correlation was observed between IDA and low vitamin D levels, which were present in 79.8% of the patients. Conversely, no significant relationship was found between calcium levels and IDA. Conclusion: Current research underscores the complex interplay between IDA and various clinical factors. Low vitamin D levels appear to be strongly linked with IDA, whereas age and symptom duration are not reliable indicators of the condition. This emphasizes the importance of considering multiple factors in the diagnosis and treatment of IDA, particularly focusing on the potential role of vitamin D in its pathogenesis. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm and expand upon these findings, potentially leading to improved treatment and diagnostic strategies for patients with IDA.

Iron Deficiency Anemia: The Impact of Intravenous Iron Replacement Treatment on Health Care Costs

INTRODUCTION: An estimated 5 million patients in the United States have iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Although most patients with IDA initiate treatment with oral iron therapy, IV iron replacement therapy is often required in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases such as cancer, heart failure (HF) or chronic kidney disease (CKD). The 2022 AHA/ACC/HFSA recommends IV iron as a treatment option for patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction and iron deficiency with or without anemia. There is limited real-world data on the economic value of IV iron treatment. This study examined health care costs for patients treated with ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and patients treated with low-dose IV iron therapy in the populations with cancer, HF or CKD. METHODS: This study included commercial and Medicare Advantage patients from the Optum Research Database, a large, national United States administrative claims database. Patients were included if they were treated with IV iron therapy from 2017 to 2019; the first treatment date was the index date. Patient were required to have cancer, HF, or CKD in addition to an IDA diagnosis. Continuous enrollment was required for a 6-month baseline and 12-month follow-up period (with patients retained if they had &amp;lt;12 months due to death). Cohorts were classified based on index date treatment: FCM patients received ferric carboxymaltose; low-dose IV iron patients were treated with iron sucrose, iron dextran, or sodium ferric gluconate complex in sucrose. Follow-up all-cause total costs were compared using generalized linear models, and inpatient costs estimated with 2-part models to account for patients with no hospitalizations. Models adjusted for age, gender, geographic region, plan type, index year, comorbidity score, and baseline health care cost. Sensitivity analyses compared FCM with the subgroup treated with iron sucrose. RESULTS: Cancer population: Of 10,763 cancer patients meeting eligibility criteria, 5,892 patients received FCM, and 4,871 patients received low-dose IV iron. Within the low-dose IV iron cohort, 3,040 patients (62%) received iron sucrose. The meanadjusted all-cause total cost was similar between FCM and low-dose IV iron (cost ratio 0.97; p=0.182) and significantly lower for FCM vs. iron sucrose (cost ratio 0.92; p=0.001). Adjusted all-cause inpatient costs for FCM were lower compared to low-dose IV iron due to lower risk of hospitalization (odds ratio 0.79, p&amp;lt;0.001) and reduced inpatient costs if hospitalized (cost ratio 0.88; p&amp;lt;0.001); results were similar versus iron sucrose (p&amp;lt;0.001). HF population: Of 8,337 HF patients, 3,364 patients received FCM, and 4,973 patients received low-dose IV iron therapy. Within the low-dose IV iron cohort, 3,471 patients (70%) received iron sucrose. All-cause total cost for FCM was similar to low-dose IV iron (cost ratio 0.97, p=0.198) but significantly lower for iron sucrose (0.95, p=0.024) during follow-up period. All-cause inpatient cost was also lower for FCM compared to lose-dose IV iron (odds ratio 0.76; cost ratio 0.88; p&amp;lt;0.001) and iron sucrose (odds ratio 0.79; cost ratio 0.85; p&amp;lt;0.001). CKD population: Of 10,617 CKD patients, 4,377 patients received FCM, and 6,240 patients received low-dose IV iron. Within the low-dose IV iron cohort, 4,584 patients (73%) received iron sucrose. During the follow-up period, the mean adjusted all cause total cost was significantly lower for FCM compared to low-dose IV iron (cost ratio 0.94; p=0.006) and iron sucrose (cost ratio 0.93; p=0.004). All-cause inpatient cost was also lower for FCM compared to low-dose IV iron (odds ratio 0.75; cost ratio 0.84; p&amp;lt;0.001) and iron sucrose (odds ratio 0.75; cost ratio 0.89; p&amp;lt;0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Despitethe higher drug acquisition cost ofFCM relative to low-dose IV iron, the drug price differential was offset by lower inpatient cost incurred in the FCM group. This resulted in similar all-cause total health care costs between FCM and low-dose IV iron in cancer and heart failure patients and lower total cost for FCM compared to low-dose IV iron in CKD patients. These results were more pronounced when comparing FCM with iron sucrose; the FCM group consistently had statistically lower total costs than iron sucrose in patients with cancer, HF and CKD. These findings suggest FCM's potential economic benefit in reducing in inpatient utilization and associated costs to patients and health plans than the low-dose IV iron products.

Accuracy of HemoCue301 portable hemoglobin analyzer for anemia screening in capillary blood from women of reproductive age in a deprived region of Northern Peru: An on-field study.

We aim to assess the accuracy and effectiveness of the HemoCue 301, a point-of-care (POC) device for measuring hemoglobin levels, and detecting anemia among individuals living in Tumbes, a rural, underserved area in Northern Peru. Baseline analysis of a clinical trial aimed at assessing the effect of multi-fortified bread (NCT05103709). Adult women with capillary blood HemoCue 301 readings below 12 g/dL were recruited in coastal city of Tumbes, Peru. A total of 306 women took part of the study, venous blood samples were taken and analyzed with an automated hematology analyzer. Serum samples were used to measure ferritin, serum iron and C reactive protein. Capillary blood measured by the Hemocue 301 has a bias of 0.36 ± 0.93 g/dL respect to the automated Hb. More than 50% of women with normal ferritin values were classified as anemics according to the HemoCue 301. Automated Hb cut-off of 10.8 g/dL [AUC 0.82 (0.77-0.88)] had a specificity of 0.817 and a sensitivity 0.711 while with the HemoCue 301 cut-off of 11.1 g/dL [AUC 0.71 (0.62-0.79)] had a specificity of 0.697 and a sensitivity 0.688. The performance of the automated Hb cut-off was significantly better than the HemoCue (p<0.001). Caution must be taken when using POC devices, especially with values around the threshold. Cut-off values found in our study could be used as surrogate means when no confirmatory tests are available. Clinical outcomes should be prioritized when diagnosing iron deficiency anemia in women of reproductive age to ensure proper diagnosis.

Proton Pump Inhibitor Use and Iron Deficiency Anemia in Celiac Patients

Introduction: We sought to evaluate the effect of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use on the development and severity of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in celiac disease (CD). Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients older than 18 years of age at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center who were diagnosed with CD. We analyzed four cohorts of celiac patients: (1) IDA diagnosis with PPI usage, (2) no IDA diagnosis with PPI usage, (3) IDA diagnosis with no PPI usage, and (4) no IDA diagnosis with no PPI usage. We also stratified celiac patients with IDA by anemia severity. Results: Of 366 celiac patients, 92 (25.1%) were diagnosed with IDA, of which 60 (65.2%) were on a PPI. The mean Hgb of celiac patients with IDA on a PPI was 11.1 g/dL and 12.1 g/dL for those without PPI (p = 0.04). For all celiac patients on a PPI without IDA, the mean was 13.3 g/dL and 13.7 g/dL for those without PPI (p = 0.02). PPI use occurred in 12 (70.6%) of the 17 patients with low severity anemia, 11 (64.7%) of the 17 patients with medium severity and 6 (85.7%) of the 7 patients with severe (p = 0.55). Conclusions: There is significant association between PPI use and IDA in celiac patients (p < 0.0001). Of those with IDA on PPIs, the distribution of the severity of anemia is not statistically different compared to those not on PPI. Discontinuation of PPIs or usage of alternative acid suppressive treatments may be indicated in patients with CD and iron deficiency anemia.

Time to Endoscopy or Colonoscopy Among Adults Younger Than 50 Years With Iron-Deficiency Anemia and/or Hematochezia in the VHA

To date, the diagnostic test completion rate and the time to diagnostic endoscopy or colonoscopy among adults with iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) and/or hematochezia have not been well characterized. To evaluate the diagnostic test completion rate and the time to diagnostic testing among veterans younger than 50 years with IDA and/or hematochezia. This cohort study was conducted within the Veterans Health Administration between October 1, 1999, and December 31, 2019, among US veterans aged 18 to 49 years from 2 separate cohorts: those with a diagnosis of IDA (n = 59 169) and those with a diagnosis of hematochezia (n = 189 185). Statistical analysis was conducted from August 2021 to August 2023. Diagnostic testing factors included age, sex, race and ethnicity, Veterans Health Administration geographic region, and hemoglobin test value (IDA cohort only). Primary outcomes of diagnostic testing were (1) bidirectional endoscopy after diagnosis of IDA and (2) colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy after diagnosis of hematochezia. The association between diagnostic testing factors and diagnostic test completion was examined using Poisson models. There were 59 169 veterans with a diagnosis of IDA (mean [SD] age, 40.7 [7.1] years; 30 502 men [51.6%]), 189 185 veterans with a diagnosis of hematochezia (mean [SD] age, 39.4 [7.6] years; 163 690 men [86.5%]), and 2287 veterans with IDA and hematochezia (mean [SD] age, 41.6 [6.9] years; 1856 men [81.2%]). The cumulative 2-year diagnostic workup completion rate was 22% (95% CI, 22%-22%) among veterans with IDA and 40% (95% CI, 40%-40%) among veterans with hematochezia. Veterans with IDA were mostly aged 40 to 49 years (37 719 [63.7%]) and disproportionately Black (24 480 [41.4%]). Women with IDA (rate ratio [RR], 0.42; 95% CI, 0.40-0.43) had a lower likelihood of diagnostic test completion compared with men with IDA. Black (RR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.62-0.68) and Hispanic (RR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.82-0.94) veterans with IDA were less likely to receive diagnostic testing compared with White veterans with IDA. Veterans with hematochezia were mostly White (105 341 [55.7%]). Among veterans with hematochezia, those aged 30 to 49 years were more likely to receive diagnostic testing than adults younger than 30 years of age (age 30-39 years: RR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.12-1.18; age 40-49 years: RR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.33-1.40). Hispanic veterans with hematochezia were less likely to receive diagnostic testing compared with White veterans with hematochezia (RR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.93-0.98). In the cohorts of veterans younger than 50 years with IDA and/or hematochezia, the diagnostic test completion rate was low. Follow-up was less likely among female, Black, and Hispanic veterans with IDA and Hispanic veterans with hematochezia. Optimizing timely follow-up across social and demographic groups may contribute to improving colorectal cancer outcomes and mitigate disparities.