Marwa Mostafa: The Paradox of Sideroblastic Anemia
Marwa Mostafa, Clinical Pathologist at Al-Esraa Medical Center, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Sideroblastic Anemia
Microcytosis plus high iron? Think beyond iron deficiency.
Sideroblastic anemia is a fascinating example of how anemia can result not from a lack of iron, but from a problem using it.
In this infographic, we explore:
What happens?
Iron is available — often increased — but defective heme synthesis prevents its proper incorporation into hemoglobin.
The laboratory pattern
- low Hb
- low MCV (often)
- high Serum iron
- high Ferritin
- high TSAT
- low/normal TIBC
The key bone marrow finding
Ring sideroblasts — erythroid precursors with iron-laden mitochondria surrounding the nucleus.
Common causes
MDS, alcohol, vitamin B6 deficiency, lead toxicity, certain medications, and congenital forms.
Clinical Pearl:
- Iron deficiency: not enough iron.
- Sideroblastic anemia: iron is present, but heme synthesis is defective.
The iron is there — the problem is using it.”
Stay updated with Hemostasis Today.
-
Oct 27, 2026, 16:28Rose Agor: Celebrating Two New Publications in Haematology Research
-
Oct 27, 2026, 16:21Pregnancy and Thrombosis-What Clinicians Need to Know – World Thrombosis Day
-
Oct 27, 2026, 16:13Lesley Van Wyk: DIC vs TTP vs HUS – The Key Diagnostic Clues
-
Oct 27, 2026, 16:02Ahmad G. Alzahrani: AF and Vascular Risk Factors – Should We Add Antiplatelet Therapy?
-
Oct 27, 2026, 16:02Iron Deficiency and Thrombocytosis: How Iron Availability Shapes Hematopoietic Lineage Decisions
-
Oct 27, 2026, 15:46Christiane Berger-Schaffitzel: New PhD Project Explores Snake Venom and Haemostasis
-
Oct 27, 2026, 13:51Muhammed Hajmusa: ESMO 2026 Highlights the Challenge of Anticoagulation in ROS1-Positive Lung Cancer
-
Oct 27, 2026, 13:39Luca Galassi: Retrieved Venous Thrombi as a Tool for Predicting Post-Thrombotic Syndrome
-
Oct 27, 2026, 11:43Tareq Abadl: Hidden Interferences Behind Unexpected Laboratory Results