ABSTRACT
Iron deficient erythropoiesis has been defined as a state in which the supply of iron is inadequate to support optimal erythropoiesis in the developing red cell mass. Most of the iron in these items is present as heme iron, which has a high bioavailability. Iron is a constituent of hemoglobin, myoglobin, cytochromes, and a number of other proteins which function in the utilization, transport, and storage of oxygen. Serum transferrin receptor assays provide more reliable information on iron status since non-nutritional factors and chronic diseases have little effect on transferrin receptor status. Hemoglobin concentrations and/or hematocrit values are relatively insensitive indices that detect only the more severe states of iron deficiency. The impaired cognitive performance and decreased work capacity that may occur with an iron deficiency at any age is particularly disconcerting. Plasma iron levels and transferrin saturation levels are useful for screening purpose but can be misleading because of influences by other clinical disorders.
