Iron overload

Definition

Non-bleeding patients who receive multiple units of red cells (>10) are at risk of having excess iron stored in their body tissues leading to iron toxicity. This can damage organs such as the heart and liver.

Each unit of red cells contains about 200-250mg of iron.

Frequency

Very common if multiply transfused (≥1 in 10).

Reducing the risk

Patients on long-term red cell transfusion plans should be considered for iron chelation therapy, with regular iron study tests performed.

Further information and resources

• BSH Guidelines for the monitoring and management of iron overload in patients with haemoglobinopathies and rare anaemia 2021
• NICE Treatment summaries – Iron overload