Iron Deficiency Calculator
Calculate iron deficit using Ganzoni equation for parenteral iron therapy dosing
Calculate Iron Deficit
Use ideal body weight if overweight
Normal Hb: 12.0-15.5 g/dL
Patient's current hemoglobin level
Desired hemoglobin level
Iron Stores
Calculated: 0 mg (based on body weight)
Automatically calculated as ~12 mg per kg body weight
Results
Assessment
No iron deficit calculated
Recommendation: Complete all values for assessment
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This calculator provides iron deficit estimates for educational purposes only. Results are for parenteral iron therapy dosing using the Ganzoni equation. Clinical assessment, underlying cause investigation, and appropriate monitoring are essential. Always consult healthcare professionals for treatment decisions.
Common Anemia Symptoms
• Weakness and fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Fast heart rate (tachycardia)
• Headaches and dizziness
• Chest pains
• Paleness
• Cold hands and feet
• Brittle hair and nails
Iron-Rich Foods
Fish & Meat
- • Shellfish (oysters, clams)
- • Turkey
- • Liver and organ meats
- • Red meat (beef, lamb)
- • Sardines
Plant Sources
- • Legumes (beans, lentils)
- • Quinoa and fortified grains
- • Broccoli and dark leafy greens
- • Tofu and tempeh
- • Pumpkin seeds
Other Sources
- • Fortified breakfast cereals
- • Dried fruits (raisins, apricots)
- • Dark chocolate
- • Eggs
- • Fortified plant-based milks
💡 Tip: Combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources (citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes) to enhance iron absorption. Avoid tea and coffee with iron-rich meals as they can inhibit absorption.
Normal Values
Hemoglobin Levels
• Men: 13.5-17.5 g/dL
• Women: 12.0-15.5 g/dL
• Pregnancy: 11.0+ g/dL
Iron Stores
• Adults: 500-1500 mg
• Men: ~1000 mg
• Women: ~500-800 mg
Ganzoni Equation
Key Points
Ganzoni equation for IV iron dosing
IV iron: 100-200mg per session
Oral iron: 65mg 2-3 times daily
Monitor response every 2-4 weeks
Vitamin C enhances iron absorption
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia
What is Iron Deficiency Anemia?
Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia worldwide, affecting 2% of men and 10-20% of women. It occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce healthy red blood cells, resulting in decreased oxygen-carrying capacity.
Common Causes
- • Insufficient dietary iron intake
- • Heavy menstrual periods
- • Gastrointestinal bleeding
- • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- • Malabsorption disorders
- • Blood donation
The Ganzoni Equation
Iron deficit = Weight × (Target Hb - Actual Hb) × 2.4 + Iron stores
Factor 2.4 represents:
- • Blood volume (7% of body weight)
- • Iron content in hemoglobin (0.34%)
- • Unit conversion factor
Treatment Considerations
IV Iron preferred when:
- • Severe deficiency (>1000mg deficit)
- • Oral iron intolerance
- • Malabsorption issues
- • Need for rapid correction
Treatment Monitoring
Laboratory Monitoring
- • Complete blood count (CBC)
- • Hemoglobin level
- • Ferritin levels
- • Iron studies (Fe, TIBC, transferrin saturation)
- • Reticulocyte count
Response Timeline
- • IV iron: 2-4 weeks for Hb response
- • Oral iron: 4-6 weeks for Hb response
- • Continue oral therapy 3+ months after correction
- • Recheck iron stores in 6 months