Anaemia of chronic disease (ACD) is a condition that affects people with long-term chronic illnesses, such as cancer, kidney disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Inflammation due to chronic disease releases IL-6 which promotes high levels of hepcidin expression, this downregulates ferroportin expression, reducing iron absorption and precipitating anaemia of chronic disease

• can use this to differentiate it from IDA

It occurs when the body is unable to make enough red blood cells and hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. This can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and other symptoms.

Investigations

• Microcytic or a normocytic anaemia
• serum iron and TIBC are low
• serum ferritin - normal or raised (due to inflammation)
• serum transferrin receptor is normal
• Hepcidin levels - high

Management

• Treatment options for ACD depend on the underlying condition and may include medications, blood transfusions, and other therapies.
• IV iron may help