Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Iron homeostasis and disorders in dogs and cats: a review.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
- Year:
- 2011
- Authors:
- McCown, Jennifer L & Specht, Andrew J
- Affiliation:
- PETS Referral Center · United States
Plain-English summary
Iron is an important nutrient for dogs and cats, as it helps in making red blood cells and supporting various body functions. When there is too little or too much iron in their bodies, it can lead to health problems like anemia, which is a condition where there aren't enough healthy red blood cells. This review discusses how iron works in the body, the different health issues that can arise from iron imbalance, how to test for these issues, and the treatments available for both iron deficiency and excess. It also highlights new methods for diagnosing iron deficiency in pets. Overall, understanding these iron-related conditions can help ensure better health for our furry friends.
Abstract
Iron is an essential element for nearly all living organisms and disruption of iron homeostasis can lead to a number of clinical manifestations. Iron is used in the formation of both hemoglobin and myoglobin, as well as numerous enzyme systems of the body. Disorders of iron in the body include iron deficiency anemia, anemia of inflammatory disease, and iron overload. This article reviews normal iron metabolism, disease syndromes of iron imbalance, diagnostic testing, and treatment of either iron deficiency or excess. Recent advances in diagnosing iron deficiency using reticulocyte indices are reviewed.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21498596/