Iron-Limited Erythropoiesis in Dogs and Cats: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Current Evidence Examining Mean Corpuscular Volume, Mean Reticulocyte Volume, and Reticulocyte Hemoglobin Content.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Iron-limited erythropoiesis (ILE) is a common condition in dogs and cats, which can lead to anemia; therefore, monitoring with erythrocyte and reticulocyte indices is recommended.

Objectives

To compare the values of mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean reticulocyte volume (MCVr), and reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) in dogs and cats with ILE.

Methods

Systemative review and meta-analysis. We conducted a systematic search using PRISMA criteria in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar up to 2024. It focused on erythrocyte and reticulocyte indices, such as MCV, MCVr, and CHr, in dogs and cats with ILE.

Results

This meta-analysis included eight articles. For dogs, the random effect sizes were 2.86 (0.55-5.18) for MCV, 2.18 (0.87-3.58) for MCVr, an

SUBMITTER: Ahmadi-Hamedani M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12412556 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep-Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature