THE PLASMA FERRITIN LEVEL AS A RELIABLE INDEX OF BODY IRON STORES FOLLOWING INTRAVENOUS IRON DEXTRAN

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 13  (4) , 309-321
Abstract
To determine whether the plasma ferritin assay reliably reflects body Fe stores, as determined by the presence of stainable Fe in the marrow, 63 Fe-deficient patients were serially studied after receiving a total dose infusion of Fe dextran (Imferon). In 58% (group 1) anemia did not recur. In 19% (group 2) classical Fe deficiency was present with low plasma ferritin levels, reduced transferrin saturation and absence of stainable Fe in the marrow. In 13% (group 3) evolving Fe deficiency was seen with low plasma ferritin level, but normal Hb and transferrin saturation. The development of overt Fe deficiency was associated with a fall in the transferrin saturation and absence of stainable Fe in the marrow. In the remaining 10% (group 4) the initially raised plasma ferritin fell in parallel with the developing anemia, reduction in transferrin saturation and absence of reticuloendothelial marrow Fe. In the development of Fe deficiency anemia following total dose infusion of Fe dextran (Imferon) there was a relationship (r = 0.9625; P < 0.05) between decreasing body Fe stores and falling plasma ferritin levels. Accordingly, the latter measurement should replace bone marrow studies carried out for this purpose.

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