Endogenous erythropoietin-mediated erythropoiesis by phlebotomy minimally influences serum transferrin receptor (TfR) until iron-restricted erythropoiesis occurs.

Serial determinations of TfR during phlebotomy in 3 subjects with initial iron stores of 107 mg (▵), 335 (•), and 1,102 mg (○). Reprinted with permission.69