Which pattern of iron studies is typical for iron deficiency anemia?

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Multiple Choice

Which pattern of iron studies is typical for iron deficiency anemia?

Iron deficiency anemia shows depleted iron stores with the body trying to maximize iron capture. Ferritin reflects stored iron, so it falls when stores are exhausted. With little iron available, serum iron is also low. In response, the liver ramps up production of transferrin, increasing the total iron-binding capacity. This combination—low ferritin, low serum iron, and high TIBC—is the characteristic pattern. Keep in mind that ferritin can rise in inflammation, so a normal or high ferritin doesn’t rule out iron deficiency if inflammation is present; in that context, iron studies can look different.

Iron deficiency anemia shows depleted iron stores with the body trying to maximize iron capture. Ferritin reflects stored iron, so it falls when stores are exhausted. With little iron available, serum iron is also low. In response, the liver ramps up production of transferrin, increasing the total iron-binding capacity. This combination—low ferritin, low serum iron, and high TIBC—is the characteristic pattern.

Keep in mind that ferritin can rise in inflammation, so a normal or high ferritin doesn’t rule out iron deficiency if inflammation is present; in that context, iron studies can look different.

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