Causes of Iron Deficiency Anemia

Anemia of inflammation: hepcidin-induced block in the release of iron from the macrophage back into the circulation, making iron less available. Commonly seen in patients with infection, inflammation, or malignancy.

Treatment with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents: In normal subjects, chronic renal disease or malignancy, available body iron supplies may be unable to release iron rapidly enough to satisfy the increase in erythropoiesis brought about by the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents