[Iron deficiency in heart failure. A new diagnostic therapy algorithm - evidence-tested and workable].

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency is a diagnostic and therapy-requiring comorbidity in heart failure with a negative impact on the prognosis. Even without signs of anemia, iron deficiency can lead to reduced performance with physical weakness and dyspnoea in patients with chronic heart failure.

METHOD: Well-known cardiologists discussed this at an expert meeting on the topic of iron deficiency in heart failure.

RESULTS AND

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the high relevance for patients' outcome, this complication is still under-addressed, although specific diagnosis and effective therapy are possible and are also recommended in current ESC guidelines. A new evidence-tested algorithm should now help to facilitate diagnosis and therapy in everyday practice. The prerequisite is that it can be well integrated into clinical routine.