Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Storage Forms of Iron
Storage form of iron in liver, spleen and kidney is:
- Hemosiderin
- Ferritin
- Transferrin
- Both a & b — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Both Hemosiderin and Ferritin
Iron is stored in the liver, spleen, and kidney in two forms: Ferritin (soluble, primary short-term storage form) and Hemosiderin (insoluble, iron-protein complex representing long-term/overload storage). Both are found in the reticuloendothelial system.
Iron Forms in the Body
| Form | Location | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Ferritin | Liver, spleen, bone marrow | Primary storage; soluble; rapidly mobilized |
| Hemosiderin | Liver, spleen, kidney | Long-term/overflow storage; insoluble |
| Transferrin | Blood serum | Transport protein for Fe in blood |
| Haemoglobin | Red blood cells | Oxygen transport (contains 60–70% of body Fe) |
Iron Toxicity — Siderosis
- Siderosis = excessive iron deposition as hemosiderin in liver, spleen, kidney.
- Occurs with chronic iron overload (excessive supplementation or haemolytic diseases).
- Prevention of piglet anaemia: IM iron dextran injection on 4th and 14th day after birth.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Hemosiderin alone → incomplete; ferritin is the primary storage form.
- Ferritin alone → incomplete; hemosiderin co-exists, especially in iron overload.
- Transferrin → transport protein in blood serum; NOT a storage form.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
