Serum transferrin receptor levels in iron deficiency anemia and anemia of chronic disease

Introduction: Microcytic anemia in chronic disease patients, the commonest differential diagnosis are anemia of chronic disease (ACD) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Routine serum markers for body iron store are influenced by inflammatory mediators. Hence, STfr levels were used to identify the body iron status in chronic disease patients. Material and Method: We have included 40 IDA in group A and 60 chronic patients in group B. Group B further sub grouped based on serum ferritin values, serum ferritin >200µg/L as group B1 and serum ferritin between 30-200µg/L as group B2. Serum STfr and serum ferritin levels were measured and compared among groups. Results: In our study, mean STfr values of group A, B1 and B2 patients were 8.305, 2.660 and 5.927 respectively (normal range 5.0+1.0µg/L). Mean serum ferritin values of three groups A, B1and B2 3.86, 562.30 and 58.20 respectively (normal range 30-200µg/L). Comparing between three groups showed statistical significance. Conclusion: STfr levels were elevated in IDA and not affected in ACD group. In iron deficient group of chronic disease patients when serum ferritin levels did not confer the iron status of the body, STfr levels were elevated. In our study STfr correlated to iron status of the body. Suggesting STfr levels can be a valuable marker in ACD.