Can iron deficiency anemia cause a decrease in white blood cells?
Disease description:
Today, I went to the hospital for a checkup, and the doctor told me I have iron deficiency anemia, which is causing leukopenia (reduced white blood cell count). May I ask, can iron deficiency anemia cause a decrease in white blood cells?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng
Iron deficiency anemia is medically associated with leukopenia (reduced white blood cell count), but it rarely directly causes leukopenia. Iron deficiency anemia is a common blood disorder primarily caused by insufficient iron in the body, which affects hemoglobin synthesis and leads to decreased number or quality of red blood cells. White blood cells, on the other hand, are a crucial component of the human immune system, responsible for fighting foreign pathogens and removing foreign substances within the body.
An iron-deficient state may indirectly affect hematopoietic function in the bone marrow, including the production of white blood cells. Long-term iron deficiency not only impacts red blood cell production but may also affect the normal generation of other blood cells such as white blood cells and platelets, potentially leading to pancytopenia (reduction in all blood cell types), including leukopenia. Patients with iron deficiency anemia often suffer from malnutrition, which may impair the overall function of the immune system and result in reduced activity of white blood cells.
Leukopenia can also be caused by other factors, such as drug-induced damage, chemical toxins, or immune-related conditions. If leukopenia occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
