B-LAB update
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) Has Updated Iron Deficiency Guidelines
The American Society of Hematology (ASH) has updated its clinical guidelines, raising the serum ferritin thresholds used to diagnose iron deficiency—even in patients without anemia. The updated diagnostic standards include: • Adults, menstruating, and pregnant individuals: 30 ng/mL or lower • Young children (9 months to 4 years): 20 ng/mL or lower • High-risk groups (e.g., heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnant with anemia): 50 ng/mL or lower • Adults with chronic inflammation (e.g., cancer, IBD): Ferritin under 100 ng/mL (or transferrin saturation under 20%) These new thresholds aim to ensure earlier detection, better symptom management, and timely treatment for patients experiencing iron deficiency worldwide.
