Anemia of Chronic Inflammation
Hypoproliferative, normocytic, normochromic anemia caused by IL-6-driven hepcidin elevation that restricts iron release from macrophages and intestinal absorption, sequestering iron away from erythropoiesis.
Also: ACI, Anemia of chronic disease, Anemia of inflammation
Common in chronic infection, autoimmune disease, malignancy, and chronic kidney disease. Distinguished from iron deficiency by elevated or normal ferritin, low transferrin saturation, elevated soluble transferrin receptor in mixed states, and elevated CRP. Treatment targets the underlying inflammation; iron therapy is needed only when paired with true iron deficiency, often best given intravenously to bypass hepcidin-restricted absorption.
How one textbook covers it
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 97: Nutritional Anemias
Common in chronic infection, autoimmune disease, malignancy, and chronic kidney disease. Distinguished from iron deficiency by elevated or normal ferritin, low transferrin saturation, elevated soluble transferrin receptor in mixed states, and elevated CRP. Treatment targets the underlying inflammation; iron therapy is needed only when paired with true iron deficiency, often best given intravenously to bypass hepcidin-restricted absorption.
Related terms
Hepcidin, IL-6, Iron deficiency anemia