Anemia of Inflammation

Anemia of inflammation, also known as anemia of chronic disease, occurs when long-term illnesses like infections or inflammatory conditions affect the body's ability to produce healthy red blood cells. In response to ongoing inflammation, the body releases substances that interfere with iron usage and red blood cell production, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. This form of anemia is common in chronic illnesses and typically improves when the underlying condition is treated. It is characterized by mild to moderate anemia, normal or increased iron stores in the body, and a disruption in iron utilization despite sufficient iron availability.