What does the term "anemia of chronic disease" refer to?

Anemia of chronic disease refers to a form of anemia that occurs as a result of chronic inflammation, typically associated with various medical conditions such as chronic infections, certain types of cancer, and autoimmune diseases. This type of anemia is characterized by a disturbance in iron homeostasis and impaired erythropoiesis (the production of red blood cells) due to the effects of inflammatory cytokines.

In chronic disease states, the body often sequesters iron and alters its metabolism in response to inflammation, leading to reduced availability of iron for hemoglobin synthesis, despite normal or increased stores of iron in the body. The process involves the interaction of several mediators, including erythropoietin, which may be inadequate due to the influence of disease.

Understanding anemia of chronic disease is essential for diagnosing patients with underlying long-term illnesses who present with anemia. This distinguishes it from other types of anemia, which may have different underlying mechanisms, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or hemolysis. Recognizing the underlying cause of the anemia is critical for effective treatment and management strategies.