Rapid diagnosis of iron deficiency by measurement of free erythrocyte porphyrins and hemoglobin: the FEP/hemoglobin ratio
Piomelli, S.; Brickman, A.; Carlos, E.
Pediatrics 57(1): 136-141
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0031-4005 PMID: 1246489 Document Number: 109631
The concentration of free erythrocyte porphyrins (FEP) and of Hb can be measured in blood samples spotted on filter paper. The FEP:Hb ratio in Fe deficiency increases exponentially with decrease of both transferrin saturation and Hb. The FEB:Hb ratio is an indicator of impaired haem synthesis. In small children an increase in the FEP:Hb ratio is a better indicator of Fe-deficiency anaemia than low transferrin saturation. The ratio is normal in thalassaemia trait and renal anaemia but it may be raised in sickle-cell anaemia. Measurement of FEP and Hb on filter paper is useful for the diagnosis of Fe deficiency, of anaemia and, in populations at risk, of Pb intoxication.