An Effective Method for Combating Anemia Identified 0 23

Intravenous iron administration—a method that has long been feared in the treatment of patients with anemia against the backdrop of bacterial infection—has proven to be not only safe but also effective. This method of therapy significantly reduces the risk of death. This conclusion was reached by hematologists who analyzed data from more than 85,000 hospitalized patients. The results of the study were published in the journal Blood.

Despite longstanding recommendations to avoid intravenous iron due to concerns that it may 'fuel' bacteria, researchers found the opposite effect: in patients with pneumonia, MRSA, colitis, and other common infections, mortality within 14 and 90 days was significantly lower if they received iron. Additionally, hemoglobin levels after 2–3 months increased more noticeably in these patients than in those who were not prescribed iron.

In cases of bacterial meningitis, there were no improvements, but no deterioration was observed either. The authors emphasize that the obtained data are retrospective, and only a randomized study can definitively confirm the benefits of intravenous iron. However, the results already prompt a reevaluation of established views on the treatment of anemia in patients with acute infections.