NORMAL IRON-ABSORPTION AND DECREASED RED-CELL IRON UPTAKE IN THE AGED

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  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 53  (2) , 204-211
Abstract
Absorption of Fe was studied with a double-isotope technique that allowed differentiation between mucosal uptake, mucosal transfer, and ultimate retention of iron. A physiologic dose of ferrous sulfate was administered to 25 healthy young adults, 40 active aged persons and 20 patients with uncomplicated Fe deficiency. Radioactivity was measured with a whole-body scanner. Fe absorption values were not decreased in aged subjects compared to young adults. Mucosal uptake, mucosal transfer, and retention of Fe were equally increased in both young and old patients with Fe deficiency. In 12 young adults and 33 aged persons red cell Fe uptake was studied in addition to iron absorption. Young adults utilized 91% of the retained, orally administered Fe and the aged only 66%. An increase in ineffective erythropoiesis in old age was suggested.

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