A patient with anemia is found to have a high level of soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) in their serum. What does this indicate about their iron status and erythropoiesis?

A The patient has iron overload and decreased erythropoiesis
B The patient has iron deficiency and increased erythropoiesis ✓
C The patient has anemia of chronic disease and normal erythropoiesis
D The patient has hemolytic anemia and decreased erythropoiesis

Explanation

A high level of soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) indicates increased erythropoietic activity, often seen in iron deficiency anemia, as the body tries to compensate for the lack of iron by increasing the production of transferrin receptors.

Source

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high