Improved detection of early iron deficiency in nonanemic subjects
S McClure, E Custer, JD Bessman - Jama, 1985 - jamanetwork.com
We measured the complete blood cell count, including the index of RBC size heterogeneity
(RBC distribution width [RDW]), in 181 subjects without anemia to determine whether RDW
became abnormal earlier in the development of iron deficiency than did other variables. In
163 subjects selected only for otherwise normal blood cell counts, an increased RDW was
66% specific (48/73) and 100% sensitive (48/48) for decreased serum iron saturation. Stool
guaiac testing was equally specific but less sensitive. In 13 subjects with polycythemia, as …
(RBC distribution width [RDW]), in 181 subjects without anemia to determine whether RDW
became abnormal earlier in the development of iron deficiency than did other variables. In
163 subjects selected only for otherwise normal blood cell counts, an increased RDW was
66% specific (48/73) and 100% sensitive (48/48) for decreased serum iron saturation. Stool
guaiac testing was equally specific but less sensitive. In 13 subjects with polycythemia, as …