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July 15, 2009

Research in recent years has increased knowledge about hepcidin and its integrated role in the absorption and movement of iron in the body – a breakthrough which has started to provide a more functional view of iron metabolism. Further understanding of how it inhibits the movement of iron and is itself regulated may eventually help clinicians better evaluate a patient’s iron status and may assist in more effective, efficient treatment for anemia of chronic disease.

June 17, 2009

Conditions of the digestive tract are some of the most common ailments that can cause anemia, often through a variety of mechanisms. They include inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), hepatitis C, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcers, celiac disease, bleeding and post-operative conditions such as resection of the ileum, total gastectomy and gastric bypass surgery. To effectively manage both the underlying condition and anemia, primary care physicians and gastroenterologits must pay close attention to the knowledge patients can impart about their symptoms and state of their health.

November 6, 2008

Iron deficiency is a common medical problem that is often diagnosed by family physicians and treated with oral iron supplements. When a patient is experiencing clinical symptoms of iron deficiency anemia, it is especially important for them to receive and absorb an adequate dose of elemental iron. There are a large number of iron preparations available over-the-counter in many different forms with various amounts of iron, iron salts, complexes, combinations, and dosing regimens. Although readily available, physicians must provide their patients with adequate education to insure that they are choosing the right iron, taking it at the right time, and minimizing the common side effects that can often lead to discontinuation of therapy.