Iron Deficiency Anemia in the Patient with Chronic Kidney Disease

Course overview

Iron deficiency (ID) anemia is a systemic complication associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD).  Anemia is linked to a worse overall prognosis, faster progression of the disease, increased morbidity and mortality rates, increased cardiovascular risk, amplified cognitive disorders, more frequent hospitalizations, and greater financial costs. This review explores the diagnosis, treatment, clinical outcomes, prognostic indicators, and forthcoming challenges associated with ID in the patient with chronic kidney disease. Crucially, addressing ID in CKD is critical for enhancing prognosis, including clinical outcomes, quality of life, hospitalizations, and survival rates. Intravenous (IV) iron therapy demonstrates superior effectiveness in enhancing hematological parameters, functional capacity, and reducing  related hospitalizations. Optimizing IV iron dosing based on individual patient characteristics is essential for balancing treatment efficacy and adverse effects. Emphasizing individualized approaches, with IV iron emerging as a superior option, underscores the necessity for ongoing research to refine dosing strategies and explore novel therapies. Addressing ID through tailored interventions, including oral or parenteral supplementation, is pivotal in averting complications and improving outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease.