How do you approach the risk/benefit discussion for IV iron in a patient with concomitant severe iron deficiency and elevated hematocrit due to supra-physiologic testosterone supplementation?
1 Answer
Mednet MemberInvited Expert
Hematology · Georgetown University School of Medicine
Answered on
I only administer iron if symptomatic (pagophagia, RLS, etc). I have not seen iron deficiency with testosterone prior to phlebotomy. When it is required, I literally walk both sides of the aisle. If a non-phlebotomized patient presented with ID, I would work it up like any other. If I have to treat, I use the lowest dose of iron to abate symptoms and continue phlebotomy to maintain appropriate hemoglobin. It's not common but requires careful attention.
Join for free or sign in to see the full answer