Deutsche medizinische Wochenschrift
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Dtsch. Med. Wochenschr. · May 2017
Review[Iron Deficiency in Chronic Heart Failure: Diagnostic Algorithm and Present-Day Therapeutic Options].
Iron deficiency (ID) occurs in up to 50% of patients with heart failure (HF). Even without presence of anaemia ID contributes to more severe symptoms, increased hospitalization and mortality. A number of randomized controlled trials demonstrated the clinical benefit of replenishment of iron stores with improvement of symptoms and fewer hospitalizations. ⋯ In this review a plain diagnostic algorithm for ID is suggested. Confounding factors for diagnosis and adequate treatment of ID in HF are discussed. A regular workup for iron deficiency parameters may benefit patients with heart failure by providing symptomatic improvements and fewer hospitalizations.