Comparing functional versus absolute iron deficiency in chronic kidney disease patients

Abstract

Background:  Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a noteworthy public health concern, often leading to complications as kidney function declines. Anemia is a common early complication linked to reduced quality of life, increased cardiovascular risks, mortality, and progression to end-stage kidney disease. Iron deficiency is an adjustable risk factor for cardiovascular and renal damage. Two forms of iron deficiency exist absolute, characterized by depleted iron stores, and functional, with inaccessible iron stores despite normal or increased total body iron. The prevalence of Anemia in CKD patients ranges from 8.4%-53%, but the specific prevalence of absolute and functional iron deficiency remains majorly unreported. Materials and methods: Demographic details, previous blood reports (Iron Profile including Serum Iron, Total iron binding capacity, Transferrin saturation, Ferritin), and medical and treatment history were taken. Data analysis was done on SPSS software. Results and Discussion: A total of 70 CKD patients were evaluated in this study. We compared functional and absolute iron deficiency in them. Both types raise the risk of cardiovascular hospitalization; however, absolute iron deficiency may be managed with medical means. These dual deficiencies coexist in a significant CKD population. Anemia in CKD stems from various factors, including erythropoietin deficiency and disordered iron regulation.