Iron deficiency is defined as a condition in which there are no mobilizable iron stores and in which signs of a compromised supply of iron to tissues, including the erythron. In pure iron deficiency, depleted iron stores are due to an imbalance between iron uptake and utilization. Chronic iron deficiency subsequently results in iron deficiency anemia.
The World Health Organization defines anemia as a level of Hb below 13.0 g/dL in male adults, below 12.0 g/dL in female adults who are not pregnant, and below 11.0 g/dL in pregnant women.
Iron-deficiency anemia may develop because the body’s demand for iron is greater than its supply, because of low iron intake or poor iron absorption, or as a result of blood loss.
Blood loss such as that associated with schistosomiasis, hookworm infestation, hemorrhage in childbirth, and trauma, can also result in both iron deficiency and anemia. Lastly, as with vitamin A deficiency, inhibition of the normal metabolism of iron can result in anemia.
Low iron intake or poor absorption of iron may occur as a result of:
*An inadequate diet
*An inability to absorb iron from diet
*Acute or chronic inflammation (such as inflammatory bowel disease)
Iron deficiency anemia: Definition and aetiology
