Brian P. Mulherin, MD

Panelists discuss how diagnosing iron deficiency anemia requires comprehensive laboratory testing of iron parameters alongside clinical assessment, emphasizing early detection to prevent complications in patients with common comorbidities like chronic kidney disease, heart failure, and inflammatory bowel disease, where coordinated treatment approaches must balance managing both IDA and the underlying condition.

Panelists discuss how iron deficiency anemia manifests through debilitating symptoms, including severe fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, headaches, and difficulty concentrating, which can profoundly impact patients’ daily functioning, work performance, and overall quality of life.

Panelists discuss how iron deficiency anemia significantly impacts patients’ quality of life through symptoms like chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive dysfunction, while also creating substantial psychosocial burdens including depression, reduced work productivity, and social isolation, particularly affecting vulnerable populations who may face barriers to diagnosis and treatment.

Panelists discuss how chronic kidney disease leads to iron deficiency anemia through a complex interplay of impaired iron absorption, increased hepcidin production driven by inflammatory cytokines, and reduced erythropoietin synthesis, resulting in both functional and absolute iron deficiency alongside diminished red blood cell production.

The panelists provide their final thoughts, highlighting financial considerations in PNH treatment.

Barriers to care and treatment adherence for patients diagnosed with PNH is discussed.