Despite its high prevalence,
anemia often does not receive proper clinical attention, and detection, evaluation, and management of
iron deficiency anemia and
iron-restricted erythropoiesis can possibly be an unmet medical need. A multidisciplinary panel of clinicians with expertise in
anemia management convened and reviewed recent published data on prevalence, etiology, and health implications of
anemia as well as current therapeutic options and available guidelines on management of
anemia across various patient populations and made recommendations on the detection, diagnostic approach, and management of
anemia. The available evidence confirms that the prevalence of
anemia is high across all populations, especially in hospitalized patients.
Anemia is associated with worse clinical outcomes including longer length of
hospital stay, diminished quality of life, and increased risk of morbidity and mortality, and it is a modifiable risk factor of allogeneic
blood transfusion with its own inherent risks.
Iron deficiency is usually present in anemic patients. An algorithm for detection and management of
anemia was discussed, which incorporated
iron study (with primary emphasis on
transferrin saturation), serum
creatinine and glomerular filtration rate, and
vitamin B12 and
folic acid measurements. Management strategies included
iron therapy (oral or intravenous),
erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, and referral as needed.