Functional iron deficiency

Definition

Functional iron deficiency occurs when there is insufficient iron available for erythropoiesis despite normal or increased total body iron stores. It is commonly seen in chronic illnesses where inflammation disrupts iron homeostasis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Functional iron deficiency can coexist with anemia of chronic disease.
2. Inflammatory cytokines, especially hepcidin, play a key role in disrupting iron utilization.
3. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and decreased exercise tolerance.
4. Diagnosis often involves serum ferritin and transferrin saturation tests.
5. Management may require both addressing the underlying cause of inflammation and supplementation with intravenous iron.

Review Questions

• What role does hepcidin play in functional iron deficiency?
• How does functional iron deficiency differ from absolute iron deficiency?
• What are common diagnostic tests used to identify functional iron deficiency?

Related terms

Erythropoiesis: The process by which red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow.

Hepcidin: A liver-produced hormone that regulates iron balance by inhibiting intestinal absorption and release from macrophages.

Transferrin Saturation: A lab test that measures the percentage of transferrin (iron transport protein) that is saturated with iron, used to assess iron status.