Hypersensitivity reactions to intravenous iron: guidance for risk minimization and management

Initial effectiveness and safety data on intravenous ferric derisomaltose for iron deficiency anaemia management in paediatric gastroenterology patients: a multicentre retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is common in paediatric gastroenterology with intravenous iron increasingly utilised. While adult data are published for ferric derisomaltose (FDI), no paediatric data exist. Our aim was to assess the effectiveness and safety profile of FDI in paediatric gastroenterology.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Two UK referral centres (Edinburgh and Sheffield).

PATIENTS

All paediatric gastroenterology patients who received FDI from June 2020 to June 2023.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Haematological and biochemical parameters were collected before and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment, when available, together with the need for repeated FDI infusions and FDI adverse events.

RESULTS

Sixty-five patients were identified (54% male; median age 12.8 years, IQR 9.6-15.2), receiving 78 FDI infusions. After a single infusion, 38/59 (64%) patients (effectiveness analysis) completely corrected their anaemia and 6/59 (10%) improved from moderate-severe to mild anaemia. Median haemoglobin increased from 92 (IQR 85-108) to 126 (IQR 115-132) g/L at 1 month (p<0.001) and peaked at 12 months (134 g/L, IQR 125-142; p<0.001) post infusion. A second infusion was performed in 12/59 (20%) patients with 9/12 correcting their anaemia. No significant biochemical alterations, including hypophosphataemia, were detected. Overall, 4/65 (6%) patients (safety analysis) experienced adverse events, with three discontinuing FDI infusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our real-world data reveal FDI is rapidly and persistently effective in correcting IDA in paediatric gastroenterology. No significant biochemical alterations or new safety signals were identified.

UK kidney association clinical practice guideline: update of anaemia of chronic kidney disease

Anaemia is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD) encompassing non-dialysis dependent CKD (NDD-CKD) and dialysis dependent CKD (DD-CKD); people on peritoneal dialysis (PD) and haemodialysis (HD); and kidney transplant recipients (KTR). Iron deficiency and erythropoietin deficiency are the most common causes of anaemia in people with CKD, especially those requiring kidney replacement therapy (KRT). The Renal National Service Framework and National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence in the UK, and Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO), all advocate treatment of anaemia in people with CKD. Blood transfusions are infrequently required, and newer therapies such as Hypoxia-Inducible Factor (HIF-PHI) stabilisers are now in current use. This guideline provides evidence based graded practice guidance on the use of iron; comments on iron deficiency without anaemia in people with CKD; provide further information on anaemia management in people with a transplant and provide guidance in the use of the new HIF-PHI drugs. It also provides audit and research recommendations.

Cost-effectiveness of ferric citrate hydrate in patients with iron deficiency anemia

We investigated the cost-effectiveness of treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) with ferric citrate hydrate (FC) in Japan. We employed four treatment strategies: switching from sodium ferrous citrate (SF) to FC at (1) 500 mg (approximately 120 mg of iron) per day or (2) 1000 mg (approximately 240 mg of iron) per day in patients with SF-induced nausea/vomiting, or starting treatment with FC at (3) 500 mg/day or (4) 1000 mg/day. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of these strategies compared with SF 100 mg (100 mg of iron) per day. Incremental effects over 26 weeks relative to SF 100 mg were 0.0052 quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) for (1) and (2), and 0.0044 QALYs for (3) and (4). From the payer's perspective, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs: JPY/QALY) against SF 100 mg were: (1) 1,107,780, (2) 2,257,477, (3) 5,588,430, and (4) 11,544,816. All four FC strategies were dominant (less costly and more effective) from a limited societal perspective. Treatment with FC for IDA was cost-effective (ICER ≤ JPY 5,000,000/QALY) when switching strategies from the payer perspective, and cost-saving (all FC strategies) from limited societal perspectives. Individual patients' characteristics and cost-effectiveness should be considered in treatment selection.

Understanding and Managing Infusion Reactions and Hypophosphataemia With Intravenous Iron-A Nurses' Consensus Paper

AIM

To provide evidence-based guidance on practical aspects and potential safety concerns (infusion reactions and hypophosphataemia) related to the use of intravenous iron from a nursing perspective.

DESIGN

A modified Delphi consensus method.

METHODS

Literature searches were conducted and used to support the development of 16 consensus statements. Six nurses with expertise in the field of gastroenterology and experience with the administration of intravenous iron participated in a modified Delphi process to develop a final set of statements.

RESULTS

Overall, 16 statements achieved consensus and covered the practicalities of administration, infusion reactions and hypophosphataemia. Patient preparation is a key step in the administration of intravenous iron, but information should be communicated carefully to prevent undue anxiety. Highlighting the nurse's confidence in the management of any reactions may help to reduce anxiety. The patient should be observed during the first 5-10 min of an infusion to allow prompt management of immediate infusion reactions, although severe hypersensitivity reactions are rare. Nurses should be vigilant for symptoms of hypophosphataemia (such as fatigue, weakness and muscle/bone pain), which can develop following treatment with ferric carboxymaltose, saccharated ferric oxide and iron polymaltose. Serum phosphate levels should be measured in patients receiving ferric carboxymaltose who are at risk of low phosphate.

IMPACT

Infusion reactions and hypophosphataemia with intravenous iron are documented in the literature, but existing publications do not approach these topics from a nursing perspective. This consensus paper highlights the importance of patient preparation, monitoring and prompt management when administering intravenous iron to ensure patient safety. Considering that nurses have a central role in the administration of intravenous iron, the availability of evidence-based guidance is essential for both nurse confidence and patient safety.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution was involved in the consensus process.

From diagnosis to desensitization in immediate hypersensitivity reactions to both oral and parenteral iron salts

Background: Hypersensitivity reactions (HRs) to iron agents are increasing in parallel with increased use of iron preparations. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the clinical features and our previous desensitization protocol in patients with immediate hypersensitivity reactions (IHR) to iron agents. Methods: We screened the medical records of 96 patients with a history of IHRs to oral or intravenous (IV) iron agents. We evaluated clinical features and diagnostic test results. Furthermore, we assessed the safety and success rate of the desensitization protocol. Results: Forty-seven patients had a history of IHRs to oral iron preparations, whereas 49 patients had a history of IHRs to IV iron agents. Skin-prick tests (SPT) with suspected and alternative oral iron salts were performed in 52.1% of the patients, and five were positive. SPTs and intradermal tests with IV iron products were applied to 67.7% and 65.6% of the patients, respectively, and four yielded positivity. Anaphylaxis was more common in patients hypersensitive to IV iron agents (n = 33) (p < 0.001). In 15 patients for whom iron agents were mandatory, 52 successful desensitizations with ferric carboxymaltose were performed. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that skin tests were not helpful in the diagnosis of IHRs to iron agents and the parenteral route of administration was related to more severe IHRs. Furthermore, in case of necessity, our IV desensitization protocol generated for ferric carboxymaltose is a safe, effective, and practical treatment of choice.

The experiences of ferric carboxymaltose desensitization and provocation

Background

To present the characteristics of drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHR) among iron preparations and to describe the outcomes of rapid drug desensitization (RDD) and drug provocation tests (DPT) of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM).

Methods

The retrospective descriptive study comprised patients with hypersensitivy to iron supplements. Low-risk according to the index reaction with iron, 10 patients underwent a 4-step DPT with FCM; an 11-step RDD protocol was administered to 21 patients not classified as low-risk. RDD success was evaluated for each cycle separately, defining successful completion as the implementation of all steps in both RDD and DPT protocols without subsequent early and/or late reactions.

Results

Among the 21 patients (mean age: 41.73 ± 10.98 years, all female) hypersensitive to iron underwent FCM RDD, 20 patients (95.2%) successfully completed FCM treatment with RDD. RDD failed in only 1 patient (4.8%). The total number of desensitization cycles was 29, of which 28 (96.5%) were successful. Urticaria was the most common breakthrough hypersensitivity reaction and observed in 7 (33.3%) patients. Ten patients received FCM with DPT. The iron replacement therapy for these 10 patients was successfully completed. Urticaria developed in 2 patients after the completion of DPT.

Conclusions

RDD is a dependable procedure facilitating the efficient delivery and completion of FCM treatments in patients with iron hypersensitivity. Additionally, FCM can be applied with DPT in low-risk patients.

Fetal bradycardia and acidosis during maternal parenteral iron: Case reports and literature review

Iron deficiency anemia is an important problem among pregnant women, and intravenous (IV) iron infusions have been increasingly used. Whether fetal monitoring is required during infusion has been debated, with a recent guideline by Hematologists recommending against such. We report two cases of fetal bradycardia after iron isomaltoside (IIM), in women with otherwise good maternal and fetal health. Both developed dyspnea with desaturation minutes from infusion, followed by persistent fetal bradycardia. Both underwent category 1 CS, with cord arterial pH of 7.08 and 6.94 respectively. Upon literature review, only three case reports on fetal bradycardia in IV iron were identified. For older IV iron formulations, a case was reported after IV dextran test dose, while two cases after ferric gluconate were reported. For the new formulation IIM, only one case was reported so far, but in a woman with Crohn's disease and intrauterine growth restriction. IV iron in pregnancy carries risk of anaphylactic or hypersensitivity reactions, even with the newest formulations and in women with good maternal and fetal health. While rarely reported so far, fetal bradycardia is a possible consequence, commonly preceded by respiratory symptoms. Fetal monitoring should therefore be considered during infusion.

Personalized Risk Assessment for Taxane-Induced Hypersensitivity Reactions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background/Objectives: Taxanes, including paclitaxel and docetaxel, are widely used in cancer treatment but frequently cause hypersensitivity reactions (HSRs), disrupting treatment continuity. This meta-analysis aimed to identify consistent risk factors for taxane-induced HSRs to support personalized risk assessments and optimize therapeutic outcomes. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the PRISMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023476738). Comprehensive literature searches were conducted up to 30 June 2024. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data were synthesized to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), using fixed or random effects models. Results: A total of 18 studies of moderate or higher quality were included, involving 8333 patients. The incidence of HSRs ranged from 3.0% to 33.1%. Risk factors assessed included history of allergy, obesity, postmenopausal state, ovarian cancer, and H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) premedication. A history of allergy was identified as a potential risk factor with marginal significance (OR 1.85, 95% CI 0.97-3.54, p = 0.06), while H2RA premedication, ovarian cancer, and female sex were not significantly associated with HSR risk. Substantial heterogeneity was observed for obesity (I2 = 57.71%, p = 0.069) and postmenopausal status (I2 = 78.98%). Conclusions: This study highlights the complex nature of taxane-induced HSRs and emphasizes the need for personalized risk assessments. While a history of allergy is a potential risk factor, heterogeneity across other factors underscores the importance of individualized approaches. Clinicians should tailor strategies to balance the benefits of taxane therapy with patient-specific risks to improve clinical outcomes.

Management of Iron Deficiency in Heart Failure: Practical Considerations and Implementation of Evidence-Based Iron Supplementation

Iron deficiency (ID) is present in approximately 50% of patients with heart failure (HF) and even higher prevalence rate up to 80% in post-acute HF setting. The current guidelines for HF recommend intravenous (IV) iron replacement in HF with reduced or mildly reduced ejection fraction and ID based on clinical trials showing improvements in quality of life and exercise capacity, and an overall treatment benefit for recurrent HF hospitalization. However, several barriers cause challenges in implementing IV iron supplementation in practice due, in part, to clinician knowledge gaps and limited resource availability to protocolize routine utilization in appropriate patients. Thus, the current review will discuss practical considerations in ID treatment, implementation of evidence-based ID treatment to improve regional health disparities with toolkits, inclusion/exclusion criteria of IV iron supplementation, and clinical controversies in ID treatment, as well as gaps in evidence and questions to be answered.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Perioperative Anemia: A Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement Collaborative Review

Anemia is common in presurgical patients and is associated with poor clinical outcomes, even without erythrocyte transfusion. Structured preoperative programs for anemia management are associated with fewer blood transfusions, increased hemoglobin concentrations, and improved outcomes.

Efficacy of a pre-operative anaemia clinic in patients undergoing elective abdominal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND

Pre-operative iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is common in patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery and is associated with increased risk of perioperative complications. However, widespread implementation of pre-operative anaemia management is lacking. Guidelines recommend investigation of anaemia preferably 4-6 weeks before surgery to allow time for correction. However, this is not always feasible in abdominal cancer surgery with short time to surgery and may be influenced by concomitant chemotherapy. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of implementing a pre-operative screening and treatment programme for IDA in elective abdominal cancer surgery patients, with short duration to surgery and concomitant use of chemotherapy.

METHODS

All patients scheduled for elective abdominal cancer surgery with IDA were included. Anaemia was defined according to the World Health Organization-criteria and iron deficiency as a transferrin saturation <0.20. The primary outcome was change in haemoglobin (Hb) between iron infusion and surgery in patients receiving pre-operative intravenous iron infusion.

RESULTS

Of 178 diagnosed IDA patients 134 (75%) received intravenous iron, 103 pre-operatively (58%) at median day 17 (interquartile range: 9-27) before surgery while 31 (17%) received post-operative intravenous iron treatment. The pre-operative Hb increased 0.89 g/dL (95% CI: 0.64-1.13, p < .001) compared to a decrease of 0.4 g/dL (95% CI: 0.19-0.58, p < .001) in 75 patients not treated pre-operatively. Patients diagnosed with severe anaemia had the largest pre-operative Hb increase. Iron infusion >2 weeks pre-operatively resulted in a greater Hb increment of 1.13 g/dL (95% CI: 0.81-1.45) compared to iron infusion ≤2 weeks before surgery 0.48 g/dL (95% CI: 0.16-0.81). Hb increased by 0.64 g/dL (95% CI 0.19-1.21) in patients receiving chemotherapy ≤31 days prior to surgery.

CONCLUSION

In patients scheduled for abdominal cancer surgery, including in patients with concomitant chemotherapy, pre-operative IDA management is feasible and results in a significant pre-operative Hb increase compared to patients not treated. On the day of surgery 25% patients treated pre-operatively were no longer anaemic.

Nanoparticle-Binding Immunoglobulins Predict Variable Complement Responses in Healthy and Diseased Cohorts

Systemic administration of nanomedicines results in the activation of the complement cascade, promoting phagocytic uptake and triggering proinflammatory responses. Identifying the biomarkers that can predict the "risk" of abnormally high complement responders can improve the safety and efficacy of nanomedicines. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and dextran are two types of clinically approved polymer coatings that trigger complement activation. We performed a multifaceted analysis of the factors affecting the complement activation by PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) and dextran-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoworms (SPIO NWs) in plasma from patients with different inflammatory disease conditions and healthy donors. The complement activation (measured as deposition of the complement protein C3) varied greatly, with 29-fold and 26-fold differences for PLD and SPIO NWs, respectively. Chronic inflammation, acute infection, use of steroids, and sex had minor effects on the variable complement activation, whereas age inversely correlated with the complement activation. C-reactive protein level was not predictive of high (top 20th percentile) complement responses. Plasma concentrations of the main complement factors, as well as total IgG and IgM, showed no correlation with the activation by either nanoparticle. On the other hand, plasma concentrations of anti-PEG IgG and IgM showed a strong positive correlation with the activation by PLD. Particularly, titers of anti-PEG IgM showed the best predictive value for the "risk" of high complement activation by PLD. Titers of antidextran IgG and IgM showed a lower correlation with the activation by SPIO NWs and poor predictive value of the top 20% complement responses. Nanoparticle-bound immunoglobulins showed the best correlation with complement activation and a strong predictive value, supporting the critical role of immunoglobulins in inciting complement. The opsonization of PLD with C3 in plasma with high anti-PEG antibodies was predominantly via the alternative pathway. Characterizing the nature of nanoparticle-binding antibodies has important implications in mitigating and stratifying nanomedicine safety.

Infusion Reactions With Alternative Therapies During the National Shortage of Iron Dextran

Prior to the national shortage of iron dextran in early 2023, it was the most commonly administered intravenous iron infusion at our institution. After the shortage impacted the health system, alternatives such as iron sucrose and sodium ferric gluconate/sucrose were required that utilized lower doses given at more frequent patient visits. Coinciding with their more prevalent use, an increase in iron infusion reactions was observed. Our study analyzed 880 patients who received iron infusions in three Henry Ford Hospital clinics in metropolitan Detroit, Michigan, from July 2022-June 2023. The 74 reactions that occurred were most commonly associated with iron sucrose at the 500 mg dose (41/74, 55.41%, p < 0.0001). Most reactions observed across all iron formulations and doses were mild, with 83.7% being Grade 0 or 1 as defined by the United States Drug Allergy Registry (USDAR) grading scale for immediate reactions. Patients who experienced an infusion reaction were less likely to complete their infusion plans (OR 0.004 for iron dextran, OR 0.128 for iron sucrose, p < 0.0001), with infusions most commonly being completely discontinued thereafter, with a minority pursuing alternative options. More patients with lower number of doses scheduled for iron dextran completed their infusion schedules than those with more doses, but the opposite was seen for iron sucrose. We assessed the impact of the national shortage of iron dextran examining infusion reactions with various iron infusions and doses.

Iron Treatment in Patients with Iron Deficiency Before and After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: A Narrative Review

Iron is an essential nutrient in living organisms with multiple vital functions. Iron deficiency (ID) can cause long term health consequences beyond iron deficiency anemia (IDA). The high prevalence of ID and its long-term effects in patients with obesity and after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is recognized. Nevertheless, there is limited knowledge of the optimal route or dose for treatment of patients with obesity and post-MBS, and an evidence-based universal guideline for prevention and treatment of ID in short- and long-term post-MBS (PMBS) is not yet available. ID in the general population is currently treated with oral or parenteral iron, where oral iron treatment is considered the preferred option with parenteral iron as a second-line treatment in case there is intolerance or lack of response to oral iron. In patients with obesity with chronic low-grade inflammation and PMBS patients with altered gut anatomy and function, there are also alterations in the bioavailability and higher risks of side effects of available oral irons. The conclusions of current studies exploring effective treatment of iron deficiency in this population have been inconsistent and further well-planned randomized and prospective studies are needed. This is a narrative review of the literature on the available treatment options and strategies for treatment of ID in PMBS patients to recognize the knowledge gaps and provides topics of future research.

Dissimilar ferric derisomaltose formulations - In vitro comparisons between an originator and its intended similars

BACKGROUND

The complex nature of intravenous (IV) iron formulations makes manufacturing and characterising similars challenging. This study examined whether simple in vitro tests can distinguish the high-dose IV iron formulation, Monofer® (ferric derisomaltose [FDI]), from the first intended copies of FDI, Rapifer® (FDI intended similar A [FDIIS-A]) and Tosiron® (FDI intended similar B [FDIIS-B]), approved in India and Pakistan, respectively. Neither intended similar is available in Europe or the United States.

METHODS

Iron content, pH, density, non-volatile residue, carbohydrate content, molecular weight distribution, complex robustness (measured using acid hydrolysis half-life [t½]) and free (dialysable) iron content were examined. Mean results from three batches of FDIIS-A were compared with mean values calculated from three batches of Monofer®. Due to product withdrawal, only one batch of FDIIS-B was available for comparison with Monofer®.

RESULTS

Iron content was similar for all formulations (∼100 mg/mL). The chromatograms (obtained using gel permeation chromatography) of FDIIS-A and FDIIS-B differed from that of Monofer®. FDIIS-A was substantially less robust than Monofer® (t½: 15 h versus 40.3 h); t½ for FDIIS-B was not tested. Free iron content was substantially higher in FDIIS-A (0.091 % w/v) and FDIIS-B (1.0 % w/v) versus Monofer® (<0.003 % w/v). Where tested, remaining parameters varied between the formulations (insufficient sample quantities prevented all tests being conducted for all intended similars). For all tests, greater inter-batch variability was seen for FDIIS-A versus Monofer®.

CONCLUSIONS

Simple in vitro tests demonstrated that, aside from total iron content, the first intended similars of FDI bear little resemblance to their originator drug. It is clear that the efficacy and safety profile of Monofer® cannot be extrapolated to the two intended similars. The results call for increased regulatory scrutiny of intended IV iron similars.

[Iron supplementation in patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease: recommendations for a practical approach]

Iron deficiency is the predominant cause of anemia. Iron deficiency anemia plays a major role, especially in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and is the most common extraintestinal manifestation and IBD-associated systemic complication. The presence of anemia leads to a reduction in quality of life in patients with IBD associated with limitations in physical, emotional, and cognitive function. In addition, it is associated with an increased hospitalization rate. For this reason, iron supplementation is of particular importance. Oral and intravenous iron supplements are used to treat iron deficiency. Due to the lack of absorption and gastrointestinal side effects of oral substitution, intravenous supplementation is becoming increasingly important. However, there are still certain concerns about intravenous administration.With the help of this review, we want to address the topic of iron substitution in patients with IBD, summarize current guideline recommendations, and provide a practical approach.

Oral iron supplementation: new formulations, old questions

Iron-deficiency anemia and pre-anemic iron deficiency are the most frequent pathologies. The first line of treatment involves oral iron supplementation. The simplest, least expensive, and most commonly prescribed drug is ferrous sulfate, while other ferrous salts and ferric complexes with polysaccharides or succinylated milk proteins are also widely used. In recent years, novel iron formulations have been developed, such as the lipophilic iron donor ferric maltol, or nanoparticle encapsulated sucrosomial® iron. Oral iron supplementation is usually efficacious in correcting iron-deficiency anemia and replenishing iron stores but causes gastrointestinal side effects that reduce compliance. When oral iron supplementation is contraindicated, intravenous iron therapy can rapidly achieve therapeutic targets without gastrointestinal complications. Herein, we critically review literature on relative efficacy and tolerability of currently available oral iron supplements, and summarize recent data on optimal dosage and frequency.

Diagnosis and management of anemia in pediatric inflammatory bowel diseases: Clinical practice guidelines on behalf of the SIGENP IBD Working group

Anemia is one of the most frequent extra-intestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease. Insidious onset, variability of symptoms and lack of standardized screening practices may increase the risk of underestimating its burden in children with IBD. Despite its relevance and peculiarity in everyday clinical practice, this topic is only dealt with in a few documents specifically for the pediatric field. The aim of the current guidelines is therefore to provide pediatric gastroenterologists with a practical update to support the clinical and therapeutic management of children with IBD and anemia. A panel of 19 pediatric gastroenterologists and 1 pediatric hematologist with experience in the field of pediatric IBD was agreed by IBD Working group of the Italian Society of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (SIGENP) to produce the present article outlining practical clinical approaches to the pediatric patient with IBD and anemia. The levels of evidence and recommendations have been defined for each part of the statement according to the GRADE system.

Update on iron supplementation in patients with cancer-related anemia

INTRODUCTION

Numerous clinical trials affirm the efficacy and safety of IV iron to treat cancer-related anemia (CRA). Nonetheless, evaluation and treatment of CRA remains suboptimal.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes CRA therapy with a focus on iron deficiency and its treatment. The literature search was conducted using the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) database from 2004 to 2024. Topics reviewed include CRA pathophysiology, laboratory diagnosis of iron deficiency, a summary of clinical trial results using IV iron to treat CRA, and safety aspects.

EXPERT OPINION

Despite overwhelming positive efficacy and safety data, IV iron remains underutilized to treat CRA. This is likely due to persistent (unfounded) concerns about IV iron safety and lack of physician awareness of newer clinical trial data. This leads to poor patient quality of life and patient exposure to anemia treatments that have greater safety risks than IV iron. Solutions to this problem include increased educational efforts and considering alternative treatment models in which other providers separately manage CRA. The recent availability of new oral iron therapy products that are effective in treating anemia of inflammation has the potential to dramatically simplify the treatment of CRA.

AGA Clinical Practice Update on Management of Iron Deficiency Anemia: Expert Review

DESCRIPTION

In this Clinical Practice Update (CPU), we will Best Practice Advice (BPA) guidance on the appropriate management of iron deficiency anemia.

METHODS

This expert review was commissioned and approved by the AGA Institute Clinical Practice Updates Committee (CPUC) and the AGA Governing Board to provide timely guidance on a topic of high clinical importance to the AGA membership, and underwent internal peer review by the CPUC and external peer review through standard procedures of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. These Best Practice Advice (BPA) statements were drawn from a review of the published literature and from expert opinion. Since systematic reviews were not performed, these BPA statements do not carry formal ratings regarding the quality of evidence or strength of the presented considerations. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: No single formulation of oral iron has any advantages over any other. Ferrous sulfate is preferred as the least expensive iron formulation. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: Give oral iron once a day at most. Every-other-day iron dosing may be better tolerated for some patients with similar or equal rates of iron absorption as daily dosing. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: Add vitamin C to oral iron supplementation to improve absorption. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: Intravenous iron should be used if the patient does not tolerate oral iron, ferritin levels do not improve with a trial of oral iron, or the patient has a condition in which oral iron is not likely to be absorbed. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: Intravenous iron formulations that can replace iron deficits with 1 or 2 infusions are preferred over those that require more than 2 infusions. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: All intravenous iron formulations have similar risks; true anaphylaxis is very rare. The vast majority of reactions to intravenous iron are complement activation-related pseudo-allergy (infusion reactions) and should be treated as such. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Intravenous iron therapy should be used in individuals who have undergone bariatric procedures, particularly those that are likely to disrupt normal duodenal iron absorption, and have iron-deficiency anemia with no identifiable source of chronic gastrointestinal blood loss. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: In individuals with inflammatory bowel disease and iron-deficiency anemia, clinicians first should determine whether iron-deficiency anemia is owing to inadequate intake or absorption, or loss of iron, typically from gastrointestinal bleeding. Active inflammation should be treated effectively to enhance iron absorption or reduce iron depletion. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: Intravenous iron therapy should be given in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease, iron-deficiency anemia, and active inflammation with compromised absorption. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: In individuals with portal hypertensive gastropathy and iron-deficiency anemia, oral iron supplements initially should be used to replenish iron stores. Intravenous iron therapy should be used in patients with ongoing bleeding who do not respond to oral iron therapy. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 11: In individuals with portal hypertensive gastropathy and iron-deficiency anemia without another identified source of chronic blood loss, treatment of portal hypertension with nonselective β-blockers can be considered. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 12: In individuals with iron-deficiency anemia secondary to gastric antral vascular ectasia who have an inadequate response to iron replacement, consider endoscopic therapy with endoscopic band ligation or thermal methods such as argon plasma coagulation. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 13: In patients with iron-deficiency anemia and celiac disease, ensure adherence to a gluten-free diet to improve iron absorption. Consider oral iron supplementation based on the severity of iron deficiency and patient tolerance, followed by intravenous iron therapy if iron stores do not improve. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 14: Deep enteroscopy performed in patients with iron-deficiency anemia suspected to have small-bowel bleeding angioectasias should be performed with a distal attachment to improve detection and facilitate treatment. Small-bowel angioectasias may be treated with ablative thermal therapies such as argon plasma coagulation or with mechanical methods such as hemostatic clips. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 15: Endoscopic treatment of angioectasias should be accompanied with iron replacement. Medical therapy for small-bowel angioectasias should be reserved for compassionate treatment in refractory cases when iron replacement and endoscopic therapy are ineffective.

Implementation fidelity of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose administration for iron deficiency anaemia in pregnancy: a mixed-methods study nested in a clinical trial in Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency anaemia is common among pregnant women in Nigeria. The standard treatment is oral iron therapy, which can be sub-optimal due to side effects. Intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is an evidenced-based alternative treatment with a more favourable side effect profile requiring administration according to a standardized protocol. In this study, we assessed the fidelity of administering a single dose of FCM according to protocol and identified factors influencing implementation fidelity.

METHODS

We used a mixed-method approach with a sequential explanatory design nested in a clinical trial across 11 facilities in Lagos and Kano States, Nigeria. Guided by a conceptual framework of implementation fidelity, we quantitatively assessed adherence to protocol by directly observing every alternate FCM administration, using an intervention procedure checklist, and compared median adherence by facility and state. Qualitative fidelity assessment was conducted via in-depth interviews with 14 skilled health personnel (SHP) from nine purposively selected health facilities, using a semi-structured interview guide. We analyzed quantitative data using descriptive and inferential statistics in Stata and used thematic analysis to analyze the transcribed interviews in NVivo.

RESULTS

A total of 254 FCM administrations were observed across the 11 study sites, with the majority in secondary (63%), followed by primary healthcare facilities (PHCs) (30%). Overall, adherence to FCM administration as per protocol was moderate (63%) and varied depending on facility level. The lowest level of adherence was observed in PHCs (36%). Median, adherence level showed significant differences by facility level (p = 0.001) but not by state (p = 0.889). Teamwork and availability of protocols are facilitation strategies that contributed to high fidelity. However, institutional/ logistical barriers are contextual factors that influenced the varied fidelity levels observed in some facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Collaborative teams and access to operating protocols resulted in high fidelity in some facilities. However, in some PHCs, fidelity to FCM was low due to contextual factors and intervention complexities, thereby influencing the quality of delivery. In Nigeria, scale-up of FCM will require attention to staff strength, teamwork and availability of administration protocols, in order to optimize its impact on anaemia in pregnancy.

Expert consensus guidelines: Intravenous iron uses, formulations, administration, and management of reactions

Intravenous iron has become an essential component for the treatment of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Individuals administering Intravenous iron should have knowledge in intravenous iron administration, including a pre-infusion assessment to evaluate infusion reaction risks, pre- and post-infusion monitoring, identification of and management of infusion reactions, accurate documentation of these reactions, laboratory monitoring and recognition and management of treatment-emergent hypophosphatemia. This comprehensive consensus provides step-by-step guidance and tools for practitioners to promote safe delivery of intravenous iron, recognition, and management of infusion reactions and treatment-emergent hypophosphatemia.

An Anaphylactic Encounter With Ferric Gluconate Infusion: A Case Report

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a prevalent condition globally, often necessitating intravenous iron therapy. We present a case of a 71-year-old female with IDA who experienced a severe anaphylactic reaction shortly after commencing a sodium ferric gluconate complex infusion. Prompt cessation of the infusion and administration of epinephrine with steroids led to rapid recovery. This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing rare yet potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions to intravenous iron formulations, highlighting the need for vigilance among healthcare providers.

Hypersensitive Reactions During Hemodialysis Treatment: What Do We Need to Know?

Kidney replacement therapies (KRTs) including hemodialysis (HD) are one of the treatment options for most of the patients with end-stage kidney disease. Although HD is vital for these patients, it is not hundred percent physiological, and various adverse events including hypersensitivity reactions may occur. Fortunately, these reactions are rare in total and less when compared to previous decades, but it is still very important for at least two reasons: First, the number of patients receiving kidney replacement treatment is increasing globally; and the cumulative number of these reactions may be substantial. Second, although most of these reactions are mild, some of them may be very severe and even lead to mortality. Thus, it is very important to have basic knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat these reactions. Hypersensitivity reactions can occur at any component of dialysis machinery (access, extracorporeal circuit, medications, etc.). The most important preventive measure is to avoid the allergen. However, even with very specific test, sometimes the allergen cannot be found. In mild conditions, HD can be contained with non-specific treatment (topical creams, antihistaminics, corticosteroids). In more severe conditions, treatment must be stopped immediately, blood should not be returned to patient, drugs must be stopped, and rules of general emergency treatment must be followed.

Consensus of the Brazilian association of hematology, hemotherapy and cellular therapy on patient blood management: Preoperative Phase - Preoperative management of the patient's anemia

Managing anemia before surgery is extremely important as it is a clinical condition that can significantly increase surgical risk and affect patient outcomes. Anemia is characterized by a reduction in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin levels leading to a lower oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Proper treatment requires a multifaceted approach to ensure patients are in the best possible condition for surgery and to minimize potential complications. The challenge is recognizing anemia early and implementing a timely intervention to correct it. Anemic patients are more susceptible to surgical complications such as increased infection rates, slower wound healing and increased risk of cardiovascular events during and after surgery. Additionally, anemia can exacerbate existing medical conditions, causing greater strain on organs and organ systems. To correct anemia and optimize patient outcomes, several essential measures must be taken with the most common being identifying and correcting iron deficiency.

ESPEN practical short micronutrient guideline

BACKGROUND

Trace elements and vitamins, named together micronutrients (MNs), are essential for human metabolism. The importance of MNs in common pathologies is recognized by recent research, with deficiencies significantly impacting the outcome.

OBJECTIVE

This short version of the guideline aims to provide practical recommendations for clinical practice.

METHODS

An extensive search of the literature was conducted in the databases Medline, PubMed, Cochrane, Google Scholar, and CINAHL for the initial guideline. The search focused on physiological data, historical evidence (for papers published before PubMed release in 1996), and observational and/or randomized trials. For each MN, the main functions, optimal analytical methods, impact of inflammation, potential toxicity, and provision during enteral or parenteral nutrition were addressed. The SOP wording was applied for strength of recommendations.

RESULTS

The limited number of interventional trials prevented meta-analysis and led to a low level of evidence for most recommendations. The recommendations underwent a consensus process, which resulted in a percentage of agreement (%): strong consensus required of >90 % of votes. Altogether the guideline proposes 3 general recommendations and specific recommendations for the 26 MNs. Monitoring and management strategies are proposed.

CONCLUSION

This short version of the MN guideline should facilitate handling of the MNs in at-risk diseases, whilst offering practical advice on MN provision and monitoring during nutritional support.

Iron deficiency anemia among women: An issue of health equity

Iron deficiency is the most common and widespread nutritional deficiency in the world. For women, the risk of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia increases due to iron demands during pregnancy and regular iron losses due to menstruation during reproductive years. These interrelated conditions are of public health concern as they are highly prevalent, and the negative consequences such as chronic fatigue, cognitive impairment and poor quality of life are broad and multifaceted. People of low socioeconomic status are at higher risk of iron deficiency due to low intake of expensive iron-rich foods, and decreased access to healthcare. In this review, we applied a health equity lens to describe the current state of care for women with iron deficiency with or without anemia. We have highlighted several structural challenges that span from the laboratory diagnosis, inconsistent screening guidelines, and stigma associated with heavy menstrual bleeding, to treatment barriers.

Intravenous iron therapy in pediatrics: who should get it and when is the right time?

Iron-deficiency anemia occurs most commonly in young children due to a low-iron diet and adolescent girls due to menstrual blood loss. However, children with gastrointestinal conditions such as intestinal failure, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and/or other chronic conditions, including chronic kidney disease and heart failure, also commonly have iron deficiency. Many patients with classic iron-deficiency anemia will improve with oral iron therapy. However, in children who have an incomplete response to oral iron, intravenous iron therapy is increasingly being used. Benefits of intravenous iron therapy include a rapid repletion of iron stores in addition to resolution of anemia, less gastrointestinal side effects, and relief for patients and families struggling with long-term iron supplementation. Indications for first-line therapy with intravenous iron in children with chronic conditions have also increased. Four intravenous iron formulations have approved indications in pediatrics, and many are increasingly used off-label in children as well. Here we discuss the indications and appropriate timing of intravenous iron therapy in children with a wide range of underlying etiologies.

IV iron formulations and use in adults

Intravenous iron has become a major component of the therapeutic armamentarium for iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. The earliest formulations were associated with unacceptable toxicity. Newer formulations, with complex carbohydrate cores that bind elemental iron more tightly, allow the administration of full therapeutic doses in 15 to 60 minutes. Nonetheless, a folklore of danger, fueled by earlier formulations no longer available, continues to foment caution. Complement-mediated minor infusion reactions, referred to as complement activation-related pseudo-allergy, resolve without therapy. Inappropriate intervention with vasopressors and H1 blockers converts these minor reactions into hemodynamically significant adverse events. Four new formulations, low-molecular-weight iron dextran, ferumoxytol, ferric carboxymaltose, and ferric derisomaltose, all approved for the treatment of iron deficiency in a host of conditions, are now widely used with an excellent safety profile. Herein, the administration, safety, indications, and management of infusion reactions are discussed. Treatment-emergent hypophosphatemia, a newly recognized side effect for some formulations, is also reviewed. Based on the preponderance of published evidence, intravenous iron should be moved up-front for the treatment of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia in those conditions in which oral iron is suboptimal.

Biodistribution and histological analysis of iron oxide-dextran nanoparticles in wistar rats

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONP) are showing promise in many biomedical applications. One of these- magnetic hyperthermia- utilizes externally applied alternating magnetic fields and tumor-residing magnetic nanoparticles to generate localized therapeutic temperature elevations. Magnetic hyperthermia is approved in Europe to treat glioblastoma and is undergoing clinical assessment in the United States to treat prostate cancer. In this study, we performed biodistribution and histological analysis of a new IONP (RCL-01) in Wistar rats. These nanoparticles are currently undergoing clinical assessment in locally advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma to determine the feasibility of magnetic hyperthermia treatment in this disease. The study presented here aimed to determine the fate of these nanoparticles in vivo and whether this results in organ damage. Wistar rats were injected intravenously with relatively high doses of IONP (30 mgFe/kg, 45 mgFe/kg and 60 mgFe/kg) and compared to a vehicle control to determine the accumulation of iron in organs and whether this resulted in histological changes in these tissues. Dose-dependent increases of iron were observed in the liver, spleen and lungs of IONP-treated animals at 7 days postinjection; however, this did not result in significant histological changes in these tissues. Immunofluorescent imaging determined these nanoparticles are internalized by macrophages in tissue, suggesting they are readily phagocytosed by the reticuloendothelial system for eventual recycling. Notably, no changes in iron or dextran staining were found in the kidneys across all treatment groups, providing evidence for potential renal clearance.

Brand ferumoxytol vs. generic ferumoxytol comparison across two dosing regimens: a cardiac MRI image quality study

BACKGROUND

Ferumoxytol is becoming more widely used as an off-label blood-pool contrast agent for MR angiography (MRA) and four-dimensional (4D) flow imaging in pediatric cardiovascular disease. Brand and generic versions of ferumoxytol are available with no information on relative efficacy as a contrast agent and safety profiles.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates patient safety and image quality of comparable dosages of generic ferumoxytol (GF) versus brand ferumoxytol (BF) with the following hypotheses: (1) Reducing the contrast dosage from 3 to 2 mg/kg will not affect imaging quality and diagnostic accuracy of MRA and four-dimensional 4D flow. (2) GF and BF have similar image quality. (3) GF and BF have similar patient safety profiles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In an IRB-approved retrospective study, changes in vitals/clinical status between baseline, during infusion, and 30 min post-infusion were analyzed in 3 groups: group 1 (3 mg/kg BF, 216 patients, age: 19.29 ± 11.71 years ranging from 2 months to 62 years), group 2 (2 mg/kg BF, 47 patients, age: 15.35 ± 8.56 years ranging from 10 days to 41 years), and group 3 (2 mg/kg GF, 127 patients, age: 17.16 ± 12.18 years ranging from 6 days to 58 years). Both pediatric and adult patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) indications were included within the study. Adverse reactions were classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Quantitative analysis of MR image quality was performed with signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) on MRA and velocity-to-noise ratio (VNR) on 4D flow. Qualitative grading of imaging features was performed by 2 experienced observers. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square tests were used for comparison with a P value of ≤ 0.05 used for significance.

RESULTS

No statistical difference was found in clinical status and vital signs (P>0.05). No severe reactions were reported. 7.9% of GF patients experienced an adverse reaction compared to 2.3% with 3 mg/kg BF and 8.4% with 2 mg/kg BF. There was no statistical difference in SNR between the 3 groups (P>0.05). For 4D flow, 2 mg/kg GF demonstrated an increase in VNR compared to 2 mg/kg BF (P = 0.005). The qualitative scores for MRA and 4D flow were high (≥ 3) across all 3 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference was identified between 2 mg/kg GF and BF in terms of safety profile and image quality. Given the small sample size of this study, further studies are required to confirm these results.

Drug Allergy in Women

Across all settings, women self-report more drug allergies than do men. Although there is epidemiologic evidence of increased drug allergy labeling in postpubertal females, the evidence base for female sex as a risk factor for true immune-mediated drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs), particularly in fatal drug-induced anaphylaxis, is low. A focus on the known immunologic mechanisms described in immediate and delayed DHR, layered on known hormonal and genetic sex differences that drive other immune-mediated diseases, could be the key to understanding biological sex variations in DHR. Particular conditions that highlight the impact of drug allergy in women include (1) pregnancy, in which a drug allergy label is associated with increased maternal and fetal complications; (2) multiple drug intolerance syndrome, associated with anxiety and depression; and (3) female-predominant autoimmune medical conditions in the context of mislabeling of the drug allergy or increased underlying risk. In this review, we describe the importance of drug allergy in the female population, mainly focusing on the epidemiology and risk, the mechanisms, and the associated conditions and psychosocial factors. By performing a detailed analysis of the current literature, we provide focused conclusions and identify existing knowledge gaps that should be prioritized for future research.

Intravenous Iron Therapy: Re-administration after Prior Adverse Reaction

BACKGROUND

Intravenous (IV) iron therapy is performed in community practices and hospitals with modern formulations when oral administration becomes impractical. Effective replacement of iron is important for the treatment of iron deficiency and anemia. Can IV iron be rechallenged in individuals with a history of adverse reactions? This review is to explore the challenge of this, when clinically indicated.

METHODS

After performing a literature search, five studies (combined total sample number=1,006) for re-exposure of IV iron to individuals with a history of past reactions were identified, observed, and analyzed. Re-exposure included reactions ranging from mild to moderate and few cases of severe type.

RESULTS

The majority (>80%) of IV iron rechallenges were tolerable, safe, and successful without major serious incidents. There were no reports of major reactions (severe hypersensitivity reactions or anaphylaxis) in these re-exposures.

CONCLUSION

Re-administration of IV iron therapy in patients with a previous adverse reaction is plausible, with benefit and risk stratification. A rechallenge would depend on the nature and degree of the adverse reaction and use of alternative formulations. Rechallenge to a previous severe hypersensitivity reaction or anaphylaxis with the same product has not been reported in these studies. Evidence on the benefit of premedication use is conflicting and requires further studies.

Reducing unnecessary premedication prior to parenteral iron therapy: A quality improvement project

BACKGROUND

Intravenous (IV) iron carries risks of mild, self-limiting, tryptase-negative Fishbane and complement activation-related pseudo-allergy reactions, with rare reports of anaphylaxis. Historically, high-molecular-weight iron dextran (HMWID) was associated with a higher incidence of anaphylaxis and empiric premedication with antihistamines/corticosteroids have been used to mitigate this risk. HMWID is no longer available and the risk of hypersensitivity reactions with newer IV iron formulations is low. Therefore, the use of routine prophylactic premedication in all patients is not justified but should be considered in high-risk patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Our primary aim was to reduce inappropriate premedication before IV iron administration by 50% so that our institution's hematology providers only prescribe premedications to patients at high risk of having a severe reaction. Interventions included a multidisciplinary education initiative to highlight current evidence against universal administration of premedications and revision of the IV iron informed consent form and electronic order set.

RESULTS

We measured the success of our intervention by comparing data collected during a 6-month pre-intervention period (837 infusions) to a 6-month post-intervention period (947 infusions). Inappropriate administration of premedications decreased from 79% in the pre-intervention period compared to 65% in the post-intervention period. We found no significant difference in the number of Fishbane reactions, severe reactions, and emergency room admissions, despite this reduction in premedication use.

DISCUSSION

Although we did not reach our goal of a 50% reduction in inappropriate premedication use, opportunities for process improvements were uncovered and are being explored in the next cycle of this quality improvement project.

Factors Governing the Erythropoietic Response to Intravenous Iron Infusion in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Limited knowledge exists about factors affecting parenteral iron response. A study was conducted to determine the factors influencing the erythropoietic response to parenteral iron in iron-deficient anaemic patients whose kidney function ranged from normal through all stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) severity.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included parenteral iron recipients who did not receive erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESA) between 2017 and 2019. The study cohort was derived from two groups of patients: those managed by the CKD team and patients being optimised for surgery in the pre-operative clinic. Patients were categorized based on their kidney function: Patients with normal kidney function [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2] were compared to those with CKD stages 3-5 (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2). Patients were further stratified by the type of iron deficiency [absolute iron deficiency (AID) versus functional iron deficiency (FID)]. The key outcome was change in hemoglobin (∆Hb) between pre- and post-infusion haemoglobin (Hb) values. Parenteral iron response was assessed using propensity-score matching and multivariate linear regression. The impact of kidney impairment versus the nature of iron deficiency (AID vs. FID) in response was explored.

RESULTS

732 subjects (mean age 66 ± 17 years, 56% females and 87% White) were evaluated. No significant differences were observed in the time to repeat Hb among CKD stages and FID/AID patients. The Hb rise was significantly lower with lower kidney function (non-CKD and CKD1-2; 13 g/L, CKD3-5; 7 g/L; p < 0.001). When groups with different degrees of renal impairment were propensity-score matched according to whether iron deficiency was due to AID or FID, the level of CKD was found not to be relevant to Hb responses [unmatched (∆Hb) 12.1 vs. 8.7 g/L; matched (∆Hb) 12.4 vs. 12.1 g/L in non-CKD and CKD1-2 versus CKD3-5, respectively]. However, a comparison of patients with AID and FID, while controlling for the degree of CKD, indicated that patients with FID exhibited a diminished Hb response regardless of their level of kidney impairment.

CONCLUSION

The nature of iron deficiency rather than the severity of CKD has a stronger impact on Hb response to intravenous iron with an attenuated response seen in functional iron deficiency irrespective of the degree of renal impairment.

The Perceived Impact of Iron Deficiency and Iron Therapy Preference in Exercising Females of Reproductive Age: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Background

Patient perceptions of iron deficiency and efficacy of iron therapy may differ from the interpretations of doctors. Qualitative investigation at an individual level related may help define patient expectations and therapeutic targets. Therefore, we aimed to explore this concept in exercising females of reproductive age.

Methods

Exercising females (n = 403) who either (a) were currently experiencing iron deficiency, or (b) have experienced iron deficiency in the past were included. A survey comprising open-ended text response questions explored three 'domains': (1) the impact of iron deficiency, (2) the impact of iron tablet supplementation (where applicable), and (3) the impact of iron infusion treatment (where applicable). Questions were asked about training, performance, and recovery from exercise. Survey responses were coded according to their content, and sentiment analysis was conducted to assess responses as positive, negative, or neutral.

Results

Exercising females showed negative sentiment toward iron deficiency symptoms (mean range = -0.94 to -0.81), with perception that fatigue significantly impacts performance and recovery. Iron therapies were perceived to improve energy, performance, and recovery time. Participants displayed a strong positive sentiment (mean range = 0.74 to 0.79) toward iron infusion compared to a moderately positive sentiment toward oral iron supplementation (mean range = 0.44 to 0.47), with many participants perceiving that oral iron supplementation had no effect.

Conclusion

In Australia, women prefer an iron infusion in treatment of iron deficiency compared to oral iron.

Applications of injectable hemostatic materials in wound healing: principles, strategies, performance requirements, and future perspectives

Uncontrolled traumatic bleeding can lead to death due to excessive blood loss within minutes. Early intervention is crucial to save lives, making timely and effective hemostasis is a major global challenge. Injectable hemostatic materials (IHMs) have been proposed to improve the effectiveness of hemostasis, facilitate wound healing, and enhance survival rates in emergency situations. The superior hemostatic performance of IHMs has garnered significant attention. However, there are relatively few comprehensive reviews on IHMs. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the latest research progress on IHMs in recent years. Firstly, the physiological hemostatic process and the underlying principles of hemostasis are analyzed. Subsequently, the synthesis strategies for different IHMs are discussed. The performance requirements of IHMs are then summarized, including high efficiency, biocompatibility, degradability, manipulability, stability and antibacterial ability. Finally, the development prospects and challenges of IHMs are presented. This review serves as a necessary and systematic summary of IHMs, providing a valuable reference for the development of new high-performance hemostatic materials and their practical clinical applications.

Sucrosomial® Iron: An Updated Review of Its Clinical Efficacy for the Treatment of Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are highly prevalent worldwide. Oral iron salts, especially ferrous sulfate, are commonly used for the treatment of iron deficiency (ID). However, its use is associated with gastrointestinal side effects, thus compromising treatment compliance. Intravenous iron administration is a more costly and logistically complex alternative and is not risk-free, as infusion and hypersensitivity reactions may occur. Sucrosomial^® iron is an oral formulation consisting of ferric pyrophosphate conveyed by a phospholipid and sucrester matrix (sucrosome^®). Intestinal Sucrosomial^® iron absorption is mediated by enterocytes and M cells, through the paracellular and transcellular routes, and occurs mostly as intact particles. These pharmacokinetic properties of Sucrosomial^® iron result in higher iron intestinal absorption and excellent gastrointestinal tolerance compared to oral iron salts. The evidence derived from clinical studies supports the use of Sucrosomial^® iron as a valid first option for the treatment of ID and IDA, especially for subjects who are intolerant or refractory to conventional iron salts. Newer evidence also demonstrates the effectiveness of Sucrosomial^® iron, with a lower cost and fewer side effects, in certain conditions usually treated with IV iron in current clinical practice.

Synergistic immunotherapy targeting cancer-associated anemia: prospects of a combination strategy

Cancer-associated anemia promotes tumor progression, leads to poor quality of life in patients with cancer, and even obstructs the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy. However, the precise mechanism for cancer-associated anemia remains unknown and the feasible strategy to target cancer-associated anemia synergizing immunotherapy needs to be clarified. Here, we review the possible mechanisms of cancer-induced anemia regarding decreased erythropoiesis and increased erythrocyte destruction, and cancer treatment-induced anemia. Moreover, we summarize the current paradigm for cancer-associated anemia treatment. Finally, we propose some prospective paradigms to slow down cancer-associated anemia and synergistic the efficacy of immunotherapy. Video Abstract.

Lysosomal nanotoxicity: Impact of nanomedicines on lysosomal function

Although several nanomedicines got clinical approval over the past two decades, the clinical translation rate is relatively small so far. There are many post-surveillance withdrawals of nanomedicines caused by various safety issues. For successful clinical advancement of nanotechnology, it is of unmet need to realize cellular and molecular foundation of nanotoxicity. Current data suggest that lysosomal dysfunction caused by nanoparticles is emerging as the most common intracellular trigger of nanotoxicity. This review analyzes prospect mechanisms of lysosomal dysfunction-mediated toxicity induced by nanoparticles. We summarized and critically assessed adverse drug reactions of current clinically approved nanomedicines. Importantly, we show that physicochemical properties have great impact on nanoparticles interaction with cells, excretion route and kinetics, and subsequently on toxicity. We analyzed literature on adverse reactions of current nanomedicines and hypothesized that adverse reactions might be linked with lysosomal dysfunction caused by nanomedicines. Finally, from our analysis it becomes clear that it is unjustifiable to generalize safety and toxicity of nanoparticles, since different particles possess distinct toxicological properties. We propose that the biological mechanism of the disease progression and treatment should be central in the optimization of nanoparticle design.

Role of single-dose intravenous iron therapy for the treatment of anaemia after orthopaedic trauma: protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Orthopaedic trauma and fracture care commonly cause perioperative anaemia and associated functional iron deficiency due to a systemic inflammatory state. Modern, strict transfusion thresholds leave many patients anaemic; managing this perioperative anaemia is an opportunity to impact outcomes in orthopaedic trauma surgery. The primary outcome of this pilot study is feasibility for a large randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate intravenous iron therapy (IVIT) to improve patient well-being following orthopaedic injury. Measurements will include rate of participant enrolment, screening failure, follow-up, missing data, adverse events and protocol deviation.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This single-centre, pilot, double-blind RCT investigates the use of IVIT for acute blood loss anaemia in traumatically injured orthopaedic patients. Patients are randomised to receive either a single dose infusion of low-molecular weight iron dextran (1000 mg) or placebo (normal saline) postoperatively during their hospital stay for trauma management. Eligible subjects include adult patients admitted for lower extremity or pelvis operative fracture care with a haemoglobin of 7-11 g/dL within 7 days postoperatively during inpatient care. Exclusion criteria include history of intolerance to intravenous iron supplementation, active haemorrhage requiring ongoing blood product resuscitation, multiple planned procedures, pre-existing haematologic disorders or chronic inflammatory states, iron overload on screening or vulnerable populations. We follow patients for 3 months to measure the effect of iron supplementation on clinical outcomes (resolution of anaemia and functional iron deficiency), patient-reported outcomes (fatigue, physical function, depression and quality of life) and translational measures of immune cell function.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has ethics approval (Oregon Health & Science University Institutional Review Board, STUDY00022441). We will disseminate the findings through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05292001; ClinicalTrials.gov.

Benefits and risks of essential trace elements in chronic kidney disease: a narrative review

Background and Objective

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an important public health concern. With the decline of renal function, CKD patients gradually progress to end-stage kidney disease and need to undergo dialysis or kidney transplantation to maintain life, bringing a heavy economic burden to the family and society. Therefore, it is necessary to effectively prevent and delay the progression of CKD. Essential trace elements play an indispensable role in CKD, and the objective of this study is to systematically review their benefits in the disease and summarize the risks of their excess.

Methods

The keywords "trace elements", "chronic kidney disease", "dialysis", "inflammation", and "fibrosis" and their combinations were used to search for relevant literature published in the PubMed database and Web of Science. We then summarized the role of trace element abnormalities in CKD patients in anemia, oxidative stress, inflammation, and chronic fibrosis, and the risk of their excess.

Key Content and Findings

Imbalance of essential trace elements is a common complication of CKD and a risk factor for CKD progression, cardiovascular events, and death. This article reviews the effects of essential trace elements (iron, zinc, selenium, copper, iodine, and manganese) on CKD. We analyze literature and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various essential trace elements.

Conclusions

Research shows CKD patients have an imbalance of essential trace elements, and treatment based on these is an important direction for future exploration. A knowledge of the homeostasis of trace elements is important to improving the prognosis of CKD patients and delaying the progression of the disease.

Protocol for a multicenter, double-blinded placebo-controlled randomized controlled trial comparing intravenous ferric derisomaltose to oral ferrous sulfate for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy: The IVIDA2 trial

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is common during pregnancy and associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Treatment with iron supplementation is recommended during pregnancy, but the optimal delivery route is unclear. Oral iron risks has high risk of gastrointestinal side effects and low absorption. Intravenous iron is infused directly but is expensive. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists currently recommends oral iron to treat IDA in pregnancy with intravenous iron reserved as second-line therapy, if needed. This approach is associated with persistent anemia, increasing the risk of peripartum blood transfusion. We aim to provide data on optimal route of iron repletion for IDA in pregnancy.

METHODS

In IVIDA2, a double-blind, placebo controlled, multicenter randomized trial in the United States, 746 pregnant people with moderate-to-severe IDA (hemoglobin <10 g/dL and ferritin <30 ng/mL) at 24-28 weeks' gestation will be randomized 1:1 to either a single 1000 mg dose of intravenous ferric derisomaltose and oral placebo (1-3 times daily) or a single placebo infusion with 1-3 times daily 325 mg ferrous sulfate (65 mg elemental iron) tablet. The primary outcome is peripartum blood transfusion (blood transfusion from delivery to 7 days postpartum). Secondary outcomes include adverse medication reactions, maternal and neonatal hematologic indices, and offspring neurodevelopment.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

A central ethical review board-Advarra-granted ethical approval (Pro00060930). Participating centers-Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, University of Michigan Medical Center, Washington University School of Ethics and dissemination: A central ethical review board-Advarra-granted ethical approval (Pro00060930). Participating centers-Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, University of Michigan Medical Center, Washington University School of.

Association of iron infusion reactions with ABO blood type

OBJECTIVES

We sought to determine risk factors for iv iron infusion-related reactions (IRR), and identify strategies for iron repletion after IRR.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients treated in the classical hematology clinic at Yale Cancer Center (n = 330 consecutive patients) from 2016 to 2021, who received iv ferumoxytol (60.3%), iron sucrose (14.8%), or iron dextran (10.9%).

RESULTS

The iv iron IRR was noted in 58 (17.6%) patients, 62.1% of whom had previously tolerated iv iron. The severity of IRR was mild in 22, moderate in 23, and severe in 11 patients. Most (72.4%) patients who experienced IRR tolerated a subsequent iv iron infusion. On multivariable analysis, a history of non-medication allergies was associated with greater odds of IRR (odds ratio [OR] 2.12, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.16-3.87, p = .01). No patients with type AB blood, and few with type A blood (n = 6), had IRR; compared to type A or AB together, patients with type B (OR 5.00, 95% CI: 1.56-16.06, p = .007) or type O (OR 3.71, 95% CI: 1.44-9.55, p = .007) blood had greater odds of IRR.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights a possible association of blood type with iv iron IRR; prospective studies with larger patient numbers are warranted to explore this association.

High-Dose Intravenous Iron with Either Ferric Carboxymaltose or Ferric Derisomaltose: A Benefit-Risk Assessment

The intravenous iron formulations ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and ferric derisomaltose (FDI) offer the possibility of administering a large amount of iron in one infusion. This results in faster correction of anemia and the formulations being better tolerated than oral iron formulations. This triad of logistic advantages, improved patient convenience, and fast correction of anemia explains the fact that intravenous iron formulations nowadays are frequently prescribed worldwide in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia. However, these formulations may result in hypophosphatemia by inducing a strong increase in active fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23), a hormone that stimulates renal phosphate excretion. This effect is much more pronounced with FCM than with FDI, and therefore the risk of developing hypophosphatemia is remarkably higher with FCM than with FDI. Repeated use of FCM may result in severe osteomalacia, which is characterized by bone pain, Looser zones (pseudofractures), and low-trauma fractures. Intravenous iron preparations are also associated with other adverse effects, of which hypersensitivity reactions are the most important and are usually the result of a non-allergic complement activation on nanoparticles of free labile iron-Complement Activation-Related Pseudo-Allergy (CARPA). The risk on these hypersensitivity reactions can be reduced by choosing a slow infusion rate. Severe hypersensitivity reactions were reported in < 1% of prospective trials and the incidence seems comparable between the two formulations. A practical guideline has been developed based on baseline serum phosphate concentrations and predisposing risk factors, derived from published cases and risk factor analyses from trials, in order to establish the safe use of these formulations.

Hypersensitivity to Intravenous Iron Preparations

Intravenous iron is widely used for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia when adherence to oral iron replacement is poor. Acute hypersensitivity reactions during iron infusions are very rare but can be life threatening. Major risk factors for hypersensitivity reactions include a previous reaction to an iron infusion, a fast iron infusion rate, multiple drug allergies, atopic diseases, high serum tryptase levels, asthma, and urticaria. The management of iron infusions requires meticulous observation, and, in the event of an adverse reaction, prompt recognition and severity-related interventions by well-trained medical and nursing staff. Avoidance of IV iron products in patients with iron hypersensitivity reactions may not be considered as a standard practice.

Beneficios del uso del hierro parenteral como alternativa eficaz en el manejo de la anemia gestacional en Colombia

Introducción. La Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) estima que más del 40% de las mujeres embarazadas a nivel mundial tienen anemia, y la mitad de estas padecen deficiencia de hierro. La prevalencia en América Latina es del 40% y en Colombia del 44.7%. Fisiológicamente en el embarazo se produce una mal llamada “anemia dilucional”, existen condiciones en la embarazada que la predisponen a tener una anemia patológica. Esta última es causada principalmente por un déficit de hierro, de allí la importancia de diagnosticar a tiempo esta entidad e iniciar el manejo. La administración de hierro es la base del tratamiento de la anemia por deficiencia de hierro. Puede ser administrado por vía oral, la cual es la preferida en la mayoría de las pacientes; sin embargo, cuando este no es posible administrarlo, es esencial recurrir al hierro parenteral. No obstante, el hierro parenteral es poco usado como primera línea en el manejo de la anemia gestacional. El presente artículo tiene como objetivo realizar una revisión que permita identificar la terapia con hierro parenteral como una alternativa eficaz de manejo para la anemia gestacional, teniendo en cuenta las características farmacológicas, la administración y el uso entre las diferentes moléculas disponibles en Colombia. Metodología. Corresponde a un estudio de revisión de literatura en bases de datos y bibliotecas electrónicas, los criterios que se tuvieron en cuenta fueron textos publicados entre 1996 y 2020, en español e inglés. Se obtuvo un resultado de 95 artículos, de los cuales se seleccionaron 49. Las palabras clave para su búsqueda fueron fisiología, hierro parenteral, anemia gestacional, déficit de hierro, complicaciones del embarazo, compuestos de hierro, farmacocinética, diagnóstico y tratamiento. División de temas tratados. Fisiología; ayudas diagnósticas; características farmacológicas del hierro parenteral; ventajas, indicaciones y contraindicaciones del hierro parenteral; efectos secundarios y forma de aplicación. Conclusiones. El hierro parenteral es un tratamiento seguro y eficaz para manejar la anemia en el embarazo, se debe tener en cuenta las indicaciones y la farmacología de las moléculas para elegir la más adecuada. Además, repone más rápidamente las reservas de hierro y los niveles de hemoglobina.