Serum soluble transferrin receptor is a valuable diagnostic tool in iron deficiency of breath-holding spells.

Iron-deficiency anemia may be a factor contributing to breath-holding spells. The serum transferrin receptor provides a useful measure of tissue iron deficiency. In this study of 50 breath-holders, while iron-deficiency anemia was detected in 28 (56%) of patients with routine tests, serum transferrin receptor levels were found increased in all patients. A positive correlation was detected between serum soluble transferrin receptor levels and frequency of attacks. It is suggested that the serum transferrin receptor level is useful as a single test for identification of iron deficiency in breath-holders. Moreover, if iron deficiency can be diagnosed earlier, then patients can be treated earlier.