Disturbances of iron metabolism, particularly iron deficiency, are among the most commonly overlooked or misinterpreted diseases. This is due to the fact that the determination of transport iron in serum or plasma, which used to be the test in conventional diagnosis, does not allow a representative estimate of the body’s total iron reserves. A proper estimate was formerly possible only by the costly and invasive determination of storage iron in the bone marrow, however, sensitive, well-standardized immuno-chemical methods for the precise determination of the iron storage protein ferritin in plasma are now available. Since the secretion of this protein correctly reflects the iron stores in the majority of cases, these methods permit fast and reliable diagnosis, particularly of iron deficiency conditions. The fact that iron deficiency is so common and is usually simple to treat ought to be well known in the medical world. Even non-iron-determined causes of anemia can now be identified rapidly by highly sensitive, well-standardized immuno-chemical methods. This book is intended to contribute to a better understanding of the main pathophysiological foundations and diagnostic principles.

Disturbances of iron metabolism, particularly iron deficiency, are among the most commonly overlooked or misinterpreted diseases. This is due to the fact that the determination of transport iron in serum or plasma, which used to be the test in conventional diagnosis, does not allow a representative estimate of the body’s total iron reserves. A proper estimate was formerly possible only by the costly and invasive determination of storage iron in the bone marrow, however, sensitive, well-standardized immuno-chemical methods for the precise determination of the iron storage protein ferritin in plasma are now available. Since the secretion of this protein correctly reflects the iron stores in the majority of cases, these methods permit fast and reliable diagnosis, particularly of iron deficiency conditions. This book is intended to contribute to a better understanding of the main pathophysiological foundations and diagnostic principles.

Iron has various functions in the body, including the metabolism of oxygen in a variety of biochemical processes. Iron, as either heme or in its "nonheme" form, plays an important role in key reactions of DNA synthesis and energy production. However, low solubility of iron in body fluids and the ability to form toxic hydroxyl radicals in presence of oxygen make iron uptake, use and storage a serious challenge. The discovery of new metal transporters, receptors and peptides and as well as the discovery of new cross-interactions between known proteins are now leading to a breakthrough in the understanding of systemic iron metabolism. The objective of this book is to review and summarize recent developments in our understanding of iron transport and storage in living systems.

"Designed for busy medical practitioners who need a trustworthy, current, and easy-to-use resource, Conn's Current Therapy 2016 focuses solely on up-to-date treatment protocols for the most common complaints, acute diseases, and chronic illnesses. Covering more than 300 topics, Drs. Edward T. Bope and Rick D. Kellerman present the expertise and knowledge of hundreds of skilled international leaders on evidence-based clinical management options, ensuring you're well equipped with the practical and accurate guidance needed for effective patient care"--Publisher's description.

Examines extent of hunger and malnutrition problem in U.S.