IRON DEFICIENCY IN CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE: BEYOND HEART FAILURE
Authors: D. Gospodinov,
L. Hadzhilieva,
N. GerasimovKeywords: iron deficiency,
cardiovascular disease,
heart failure,
ferritin,
transferrin saturation,
intravenous ironAbstract:Iron deficiency is a common but often underrecognized condition in cardiovascular disease. While its role in heart failure is well established, emerging evidence suggests broader clinical relevance across multiple cardiovascular conditions. This narrative review examines the pathophysiology, clinical impact, and therapeutic implications of iron deficiency beyond heart failure. Special attention is given to its role in coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and perioperative cardiovascular risk.
Iron deficiency is associated with reduced exercise capacity, impaired myocardial energetics, and worse clinical outcomes. Intravenous iron therapy has demonstrated clinical benefits in selected populations, particularly in heart failure, while its role in other cardiovascular conditions is still evolving.
Recognizing and treating iron deficiency may represent an important step toward improving cardiovascular outcomes.
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