Iron Deficiency in the White Rat and the White Mouse

This study investigates the effects of iron deficiency on white rats and mice, suggesting a link to pellagra as an iron-deficiency disease. Two types of iron-poor diets were used, one synthetic and one based on natural foodstuffs, both providing adequate protein, fat, carbohydrates, and vitamins. The study involved 6 series of 6 to 8 rats each and one series of 10 mice. All animals developed symptoms of hair loss, which was bilaterally symmetrical and occurred in areas inaccessible to the animals themselves, indicating that the hair was not chewed off. Hair loss began between 15 days to 2 months after starting the diet, highlighting the impact of iron deficiency on hair health.