High levels of iron and ferritin are found in which type of anemia?

High levels of iron and ferritin are typically associated with chronic disease anemia, which is a type of anemia that occurs in the context of chronic inflammation or disease processes. In conditions such as chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or cancer, the body often responds by sequestering iron as part of a protective mechanism to limit microbial growth and suppress iron availability for pathogens.

In chronic disease anemia, despite the presence of high iron stores (indicated by elevated ferritin levels), there is a reduction in the availability of iron for erythropoiesis, leading to anemia. This is due to the action of inflammatory cytokines that interfere with iron metabolism and utilization, resulting in the body’s inability to effectively use the iron that is present.

In contrast, iron deficiency anemia is characterized by low levels of iron and ferritin; B-12 and folic acid deficiency anemias are not associated with high iron levels. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for differentiating between types of anemia based on laboratory findings and clinical context.