Clinicohaematological features of iron deficiency anaemia in children between 1-5 years of age

ABSTRACT

To study the clinicohaematological features of iron deficiency anaemia in children between 1-5 years of age. Children between 1-5 years of age suffering from iron deficiency anaemia were included in this study. Personal and family data was obtained for each child. Height and weight were recorded and degree of malnutrition determined as per modified Gomez classification. Samples for blood counts were taken in K[3]EDTA and complete blood counts were performed. Differential leucocyte count and RBC morphology was done by visual reviewing of slides. Ferritin was measured for each patient. Cut off value for defining anaemia was set at 11 g/dl as per WHO criteria. SPSS computer software was used for mean and SD calculations. Different clinical features were cross tabulated with measured Hb levels to evaluate their correlation. Chi-Square test was used to see the significant level. A total of 191 patients were studied with mean age of 1.9 [SD 0.89] years. Male to female ratio was 21. Overall, 121[63.3%] children had varying degrees of malnutrition. Mean Hb was 8.2 g/dl [SD 1.3]. Majority of the patients [62.3%] had Hb between 6.1-8 g/dl. Sixty patients had Hb>8 g/dl while 12 had Hb siblings. Significant relationship [p=0.005] was seen between duration of breast feeding and degree of anaemia, with mean Hb decreasing with prolonged breast feeding. A similar association was seen with increase in number of siblings [p=0.023]. In pre-school children, iron deficiency anaemia is commonly associated with malnutrition. High prevalence of the disease and associated serious adverse outcomes make it essential not only to implement prevention strategies like food fortification but also to make efforts for early diagnosis and adequate replacement therapy