Iron therapy.

Iron deficiency is a very common disorder. It is always worthwhile to confirm the diagnosis by measuring both serum iron and serum iron binding capacity, before instituting treatment. A diagnosis of iron deficiency demands that its cause be established. Therapy requires that the lost iron be replaced, and that the underlying condition be treated. Replacement may be achieved safely, cheaply and effectively with oral iron therapy. There is very rarely a need to treat an iron deficient patient with parenteral therapy.