Sangre
-
To evaluate blood donation as a cause of iron deficiency. ⋯ 1st) Iron deficiency related to blood donation is demonstrated. This deficiency is clearly seen in men after the first blood donations and is more intense in women, as their previous reserves are lower. 2nd) Ferritin is the best marker for estimating iron deposits, and enzymoimmunoassay is the technique of choice as it seems easy to perform and is automatic. 3rd) Determining ferritin levels in the first blood donation seems advisable in order to assess previous deposits and to evaluate yearly the state or iron reserves. 4th) Iron supplement is advisable during the 4 first donations in regular blood donors and in those with iron deficiency, with ferrous sulphate at a dose of 100 mg/day for 10 days.