Crohns Colitis 360. 2020 Jul;2(3):otaa051. doi: 10.1093/crocol/otaa051. Epub 2020 Jun 24.

Christopher L Coe ¹, Matthew H Meyers ¹, Dawn B Beaulieu ¹, Elizabeth Scoville ¹, David A Schwartz ¹, Sara N Horst ¹, Robin L Dalal ¹

Author information

• ¹Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.

Abstract

Background: The effectiveness and safety of gastroenterologist (GI)-lead treatment of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have not been well-studied.

Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients with IBD, IDA, and evidence of treatment with iron at a tertiary IBD center was conducted.

Results: In 351 patients, hemoglobin and quality of life scores increased significantly after treatment with iron. Twelve of 341 patients treated with intravenous iron had an adverse effect. Twenty-seven patients required a hematology referral.

Conclusion: GIs should consider treating patients with IBD and IDA with intravenous iron as it is safe and effective.