New horizons in iron deficiency anaemia in older adults

Burton, J. K. , Yates, L. C., Whyte, L., Fitzsimmons, E. and Stott J, D. (2020) New horizons in iron deficiency anaemia in older adults. Age and Ageing, 49(3), pp. 309-318. (doi: 10.1093/ageing/afz199)

Abstract

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is common in older adults and associated with a range of adverse outcomes. Differentiating iron deficiency from other causes of anaemia is important to ensure appropriate investigations and treatment. It is possible to make the diagnosis reliably using simple blood tests. Clinical evaluation and assessment are required to help determine the underlying cause and to initiate appropriate investigations. IDA in men and post-menopausal females is most commonly due to occult gastrointestinal blood loss until proven otherwise, although there is a spectrum of underlying causative pathologies. Investigation decisions should take account of the wishes of the patient and their competing comorbidities, individualising the approach. Management involves supplementation using oral or intravenous (IV) iron then consideration of treatment of the underlying cause of deficiency. Future research areas are outlined including the role of Hepcidin and serum soluble transferrin receptor measurement, quantitative faecal immunochemical testing, alternative dosing regimens and the potential role of IV iron preparations.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Stott J, Professor David and Burton, Dr Jenni
• Authors: Burton, J. K., Yates, L. C., Whyte, L., Fitzsimmons, E., and Stott J, D.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
• Journal Name: Age and Ageing
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• ISSN: 0002-0729
• ISSN (Online): 1468-2834
• Published Online: 27 February 2020
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2020 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Age and Ageing 49(3): 309-318
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy