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Iron is needed to produce hemoglobin, the part of a red blood cell that carries oxygen. A key finding in anemia of chronic disease is increased uptake and retention of iron within certain cells, which leads to reduced amounts of functional iron that is available for the production of hemoglobin.
Similarly, why is iron low in anemia of chronic disease?
Transferrin, a protein that transports iron, is elevated in iron-deficiency anemia, indicating that the body needs more iron. In iron-deficiency anemia, the TIBC is higher than 400–450 mcg/dL because stores are low. In anemia of chronic disease, the TIBC is usually below normal because the iron stores are elevated.
Similarly, it is asked, how do you treat anemia of chronic disease?
Treatment of anemia of chronic disease requires treating the underlying disorder. Because the anemia is generally mild, transfusions usually are not required. Recombinant EPO has been shown to be most useful in the setting of chronic kidney disease.
Chronic conditions that cause anemia of inflammation Causes of anemia in CKD may include inflammation, low levels of EPO due to kidney damage, or low levels of the nutrients needed to make red blood cells. People with IBD may have both iron-deficiency anemia due to blood loss and anemia of inflammation.