Impact of treatment of iron deficiency anemia in inflammatory bowel disease: considerations in managed care.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is commonly associated with iron deficiency anemia (IDA), with a multifactorial pathophysiology. Diagnosis of both IDA and IBD places patients at risk for poor quality of life, as well as increased hospitalization and healthcare utilization. Treatment of IDA involves iron repletion with either oral or intravenous iron products. When selecting therapy, the total expenses of care must be considered, including direct and indirect costs, as well as patient clinical outcomes.