Figure 2.

Hypothesized impact of iron deficiency anemia and iron supplementation on P. falciparum erythrocytic infection. Iron deficiency anemia and iron supplementation each profoundly influence human erythropoiesis, and this may influence erythrocytic stage malaria infection. Iron deficiency induced reduction in the erythropoietic rate and synthesis of microcytic iron deficient RBCs may provide protection against P. falciparum infection. Conversely, stimulation of the human host's erythropoietic rate by iron supplementation and subsequent replacement of microcytic iron deficient RBCs with young iron-replete RBCs may increase an individual's risk of erythrocytic stage P. falciparum infection.