Role of Soluble Transferrin Receptor and Transferrin Receptor-Ferritin Index to Detect Iron Deficiency Anemia in Regular Hemodialysis Patients

Abstract Introduction Several iron indicators can be used to detect iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) where confounding comorbidities occurred such as patients with regular hemodialysis. Aim of the Study to determine the diagnostic value of sTfR and TfR-F and to combine these two markers in detecting IDA in HD anemic patients. Patients and Methods This is observational prospective case–control study carried on 30 cases &30 controls. IDA was diagnosed based on TS < 20% and ferritin level < 200 ng/L and functional iron deficiency when TS < 20% and ferritin > 200 ng/L. TfR-F index calculated as sTfR/log ferritin. All participants were subjected to full clinical examination& routine laboratory investigations (CBC, RBCs indices, iron profile, serum electrolytes blood urea and creatinine) specific investigations (Serum sTfR was measured with ELISA technique) Results There is statistically significant difference between the two groups as regard sTfR. There were strong significant correlations between TfR-F index and T.SAT, CRP, TIBC and sTfR. In Univariate correlation regression, there were strong significant positive correlations between TfR-F index and T.SAT, CRP, TIBC and sTfR. In Multivariate correlation regression, there were strong significant positive correlations between TfR-F index and T.SAT, CRP, TIBC and sTfR. Sensitivity of sTfR and TfR-F index was 83.5% and 85% respectively. Specificity of sTfR and TfR-F index was 70.1% and 75% respectively. Conclusion When sTfR and the TfR-F index used in combination to detect IDA, we found that sensitivity of sTfR and TfR-F index was 83.5% and 85% respectively. Specificity of sTfR and TfR- F index was 70.1% and 75% respectively.