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Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency

SUMMARY

• To diagnose iron deficiency, first determine if the patient has absolute iron deficiency, functional iron deficiency or both for decisions related to effective management. 
• Reticulocyte studies are always indicated when assessing / diagnosing iron deficiency. 
• Iron studies should consist of serum iron, total iron binding capacity (TIBC), percent transferrin saturation (Fe/TIBC) and serum ferritin should suffice to diagnose iron deficiency. 
• Iron therapy choice should be based on patient’s iron status, tolerance of oral iron and urgency of correction

 SECTION CONTENTS

1. Determining Iron Deficiency
2. Laboratory Studies for Diagnosing Iron Deficiency
3. Laboratory Testing Algorithm for Anemia
4. Diagnostic Algorithm for Absolute and Functional Iron Deficiency – Example