CRP and sickle cell disease: Severe anemia negatively regulates hepcidin production through the action of erythroferrone,36 even in the presence of inflammation/infection37, 38 or sickle cell disease.39 Inflammation, as measured by ferritin and CRP, did not differ between the SMA and CM groups, although parasite density, known to correlate with hepcidin levels,40 was higher in CM.