Etiology, clinical presentation and diagnosis of different types of anemia in pediatric age group: A prospective study
Journal Title: Medpulse International Journal of Pathology - Year 2019, Vol 10, Issue 1
Abstract
Background: Anemia can be defined as a hemoglobin level less than the 5th percentile for the particular age. Anemia is not a disease in itself but is indicative of underlying iron deficiency or more sinister pathologies such as hereditary or hemolytic anemia. Anemia is one of the common and pervasive health problem in pediatric age group. Its accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment is crucial particularly in children. Though the most common cause of anemia is nutritional an alternate diagnosis must be considered in patients who fail to respond to standard doses of iron supplementation. The history and clinical examination may guide towards the relevant workup needed for accurate diagnosis which is important for management of these children. We conducted this study to analyze peripheral blood picture, etiology, clinical presentation and diagnosis of different anemia in pediatric age group. Materials And Methods: This was a prospective cohort study conducted in the department of pathology in which children (Up to 18 years of age) who were referred for workup of various types of anemia were included on the basis of a predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A detailed history was taken in all the patients and a through clinical examination was done. Complete blood count and peripheral smears of all the patients were examined. Specific investigations such as reticulocyte count, Hb electrophoresis, Iron studies, bone marrow examination was done in selected patients depending upon the suspected diagnosis. SSPE 21 software was used for statistical analysis and p value less than 0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results: A total 120 pediatric patients were included in this study out of which there were 78 (65.00%) boys and 42 (35.00%) girls with a M: F ratio of 1:0.43. The most common affected age group was found to be less than 5 years of age (40.83%). The common signs and symptoms were found to be pallor (100%) followed by fatigability or weakness. The most common morphological type of anemia was found to be microcytic (76.67%) and most common etiology was found to be iron deficiency (45.00%). The other common causes of anemia were found to be thalassemia (18.33%) and megaloblastic anemia (13.33%). In 12 (10.00%) patients the exact etiological cause of anemia couldn’t be determined. Conclusion: Anemia in pediatric age group is a common health problem. Its etiological diagnosis is essential for Proper management. Failure to treat anemia in pediatric age group may have long lasting impact on health and well-being of children.
Authors and Affiliations
Bhagyashri Ahirrao, Mahesh Ahirrao, Nandkumar V Dravid, Ashish Shah, Neha Kidiley
Keywords
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- EP ID EP591083
- DOI 10.26611/1051019
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