Alterations in iron metabolism and the erythron in major depression: further evidence for a chronic inflammatory process.

There is now some evidence that major depression is accompanied by biochemical and immune changes pointing to the presence of a chronic inflammatory response. The latter condition is reportedly characterized by changes in iron (Fe) metabolism and the erythron, such as decreased serum Fe and transferrin (Tf) and increased serum ferritin, lower number of red blood cells (RBC), lower hematocrit (Htc) and hemoglobin (Hb). The aim of the present study was to examine Fe metabolism and the erythron in 38 major depressed subjects versus 15 normal volunteers, as well as the effects of antidepressant treatments on these variables.