Effect of Iron on Hemoglobin Regeneration in Gastrectomized Dogs

Abstract

We have previously shown 1 that the gastrectomized dog has a markedly reduced capacity to regenerate hemoglobin when maintained at anemic levels on various diets. The average production capacity is approximately 10% of that of normal dogs and is around 0.2 gm. of hemoglobin per day on a meat diet. It was also noted that liver feeding or the administration of liver extract 343 (Lilly) is comparatively ineffectual in increasing the level of hemoglobin production. Liver extract 55 (Lilly), however, caused a definite increase in hemoglobin production. As this preparation contains added iron, the present studies were directed to determining the effect of the oral administration of iron. Incidentally, the character of the blood findings during the period of anemia and of iron therapy were followed.

The same 4 dogs used in the previous study were used, the gastrectomy operation thus preceding the present experiments by from 2 to 3 years. The technique of study was similar to that used previously. The dogs were maintained at an anemic level (e. g., hemoglobin levels of 6 to 9 gm. per 100 cc.) by intermittent bleeding, the hemoglobin production for a given period being determined as the total hemoglobin removed by the bleedings plus or minus the gain or deficit in total circulating hemoglobin during the same time. This is the method developed by Whipple and his coworkers. The hemoglobin determinations were made with a Sahli-Hellige Haemometer and the blood volume determinations by the method of Keith and Rowntree as modified by Whipple. One dog (No. 12) was spontaneously anemic and was not subjected to bleedings. After several consecutive periods of standardization on a meat diet alone, iron in the form of Blaud's pills (Pills of Ferrous Carbonate), ferric ammonium citrate, or saccharated iron oxide was administered orally and the hemoglobin production during the iron regime determined.