Home » Transfusion practice » Anaemia & haemostasis management » Iron deficiency anaemia

Clinical consequences of iron deficiency

Iron deficiency and iron deficiency anaemia have been associated with a number of clinical consequences:

  • anaemia
  • decreased memory, impaired learning and concentration
  • impaired immune function
  • decreased aerobic sports performance
  • decreased work productivity
  • fatigue
  • adverse pregnancy outcomes:
    • increased risk of low birth weight
    • increased risk of prematurity
    • increased risk of maternal morbidity
  • infant motor and mental function delay
  • increased risk of transfusion and associated outcomes

References

    1. Gastroenterological Society of Australia. Clinical update: Iron deficiency, First Edition. Sydney, Australia, Digestive Health Foundation, 2008. Available from: http://www.gesa.org.au.
    2. Pasricha SR, Flecknoe-Brown SC, Allen KJ, Gibson PR, McMahon LP, Olynyk JK, et al. Diagnosis and management of iron deficiency anaemia: a clinical update. MJA 2010;193:525–532. Available from: http://www.mja.com.au.
    Updated on 09 July 2012