IRON AND IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA - A REVIEW

Iron deficiency (ID) remains the most common mineral and nutrient deficiency and a public health concern worldwide. ID often leads to iron deficiency anemia (IDA), which affects about 30% of the world population. IDA presents with generalized fatigue and dyspnea in adults, decrement in learning, and behavioral abnormalities in adolescents. In children and pregnant women, a psychological disorder called pica is commonly seen. Delayed development and growth and decrease in cognitive function are the results of ID in neonates. A severe form of IDA can cause significant mortality in children and pregnant women. Investigations required to diagnose the IDA are complete blood count (CBC), serum iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), transferrin saturation, but low serum ferritin is the best diagnostic test in IDA. Treating the underlying etiology is the initial step in IDA management. Oral iron salts remain the treatment of choice in most patients who do not have comorbid conditions. The patient who cannot tolerate oral iron due to gastrointestinal (GI) side effects newer generations IV iron therapy may be appropriate.GI evaluation is necessary for adult men and postmenopausal women whose respond is minimal to iron therapy. Red blood cells (RBCs) transfusion is indicated in severe unstable IDA patients.