CHARACTERISTIC CHANGES IN IRON METABOLISM IN SINUSITIS

Specific changes in iron metabolism during sinusitis are closely linked to the body's response to the inflammatory process. Inflammation of the paranasal sinus mucosa leads to functional changes in the absorption, transport, and storage of iron. Under the influence of inflammatory mediators, particularly cytokines, hepcidin levels rise, which in turn reduces iron absorption from the intestines and enhances its accumulation in macrophages. Consequently, serum iron levels decrease, potentially leading to functional iron deficiency.