Laboratory and genetic assessment of iron deficiency in blood donors.

ABSTRACT: More than 9 million individuals donate blood annually in the United States. Between 200 and 250 mg of iron is removed with each whole blood donation, reflecting losses from the hemoglobin in red blood cells. Replenishment of iron stores takes many months, leading to a high rate of iron depletion. In an effort to better identify and prevent iron deficiency, blood collection centers are now considering various strategies to manage donor iron loss. This article highlights laboratory and genetic tests to assess the iron status of blood donors and their applicability as screening tests for blood donation.

SUBMITTER: Kiss JE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4451195 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature