A COMPARISON OF THE PLASMA IRON, IRON-BINDING CAPACITY, STERNAL MARROW IRON AND OTHER METHODS IN THE CLINICAL EVALUATION OF IRON STORES

Abstract

Data obtained from 106 patients is presented in order to compare the following means of evaluating iron stores clinically: (1): histologic examination of the bone marrow sections stained for Fe; (2) enumeration of sideroblasts in marrow smears; (3) plasma Fe and serum Fe binding capacity; (4) the oral Fe tolerance test; and (5) ferrokinetic studies with radioiron. Examination of the bone marrow for stainable Fe was the most reliable means of differentiating Fe deficiency from other forms of anemia. The plasma Fe and Fe binding capacity studies were a reliable means of diagnosing Fe deficiency only where the hemoglobin was below 9 gm %. In hemochromatosis, the amount of Fe in the marrow was not greatly excessive but the pattern of deposition was distinctive. The plasma Fe was increased markedly and the unsaturated Fe binding capacity decreased in all patients with primary hemochromatosis. The Fe tolerance curve ferrokinetic studies were of little value in the evaluation of iron stores.