Zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP) can help classify the degree of iron deficiency in a patient.
Serum Ferritin
ZPP
Hemoglobin
Status
decreased
normal
normal
depleted iron stores
decreased
increased
normal
iron deficiency
decreased
increased
decreased
iron deficiency anemia
after Table 5, page 772, Hastka et al
Advantages of zinc protoporphyrin: not affected by acute phase reaction like ferritin. Increases in severe chronic inflammation reflect anemia of chronic disease.
Disadvantages of zinc protoporphyrin: may be elevated in other causes of iron-deficient erythopoiesis such as beta-thalassemia, sideroblastic anemia, anemia of chronic disease and lead poisoning
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
