Relación densidad septo-ventrículo izquierdo como parámetro de detección de anemia en tomografía computarizada no contrastada de tórax en observadores con entrenamiento básico / Septum-Left Ventricular Density Ratio as a Parameter for Detecting Anemia in Non-Contrasted Chest Computed Tomography in Observers with Basic Training

Introducción: La anemia es frecuentemente subdiagnosticada dada su vaga sintomatología. Estudios con evaluación subjetiva-visual por expertos describen signos tomográficos sugerentes de anemia, tales como el septo denso. Proponemos que lectores con entrenamiento básico realicen mediciones objetivas de alto poder estadístico para la detección de anemia. Material y Métodos: Se cruzaron datos de tomografía computarizada (TC) de tórax no contrastada (2021) con medición de hemoglobina plasmática (Hb) realizada 24 horas antes o después del estudio tomográfico. Dos estudiantes de Medicina, previamente entrenados, realizaron mediciones de Unidades Hounsfield (UH) en el septo interventri-cular (SIV) y cavidades ventriculares derecho (VD) e izquierdo (VI). Las relaciones SIV/VI y SIV/VD se correlacionaron con los valores de Hb. Se analizó la variabilidad interob-servador y se determinó el punto de corte óptimo para detectar anemia. Resultados: En una muestra de 112 casos, hubo alta concordancia interobservador con r de 0,85 (VD), 0,67 (SIV) y 0,87 (VI). La relación SIV/VI obtuvo el mayor AUC con 0,86 (IC 95%: 0,72 a 0,91), con una sensibilidad de 80% y especificidad de 88% utilizando un punto de corte de 1,15. Conclusiones: La razón SIV/VI con punto de corte de 1,15 es un parámetro confiable para detectar anemia mediante TC de tórax no contrastada, en observadores con entrenamiento básico.

Introduction: Anemia is frequently underdiagnosed given its vague symptomatology. Studies with subjective-visual evaluation by experts describe tomographic signs suggestive of anemia, such as a dense septum. This study aims to evaluate if readers with basic training can perform high statistical value measurements for anemia detection. Material and Methods: Data of non-contrast thoracic computed tomography (CT) (2021) with a measurement of plasma hemoglobin (Hb) performed 24 hours before or after the CT were identified. Two previously trained medical students performed measurements of Hounsfield Units (HU) on the interventricular septum (IVS) and right (RV) and left (LV) ventricular cavities. The SIV/VI and SIV/VD ratios were correlated with Hb values. Interobserver variability was analyzed and the optimal cut-off point to detect anemia was determined. Results: In a sample of 112 cases, there was a high interobserver correlation with r of 0.85 (VD), 0.67 (SIV), and 0.87 (VI). SIV/VI ratio obtained the highest AUC with 0.86 (95% CI: 0.72 to 0.91), with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 88% using a cut-off point of 1.15. Conclusions: The SIV/VI ratio with a cut-off point of 1.15 is a reliable parameter to detect anemia using non-contrast chest CT in observers with basic training.

Patient Blood Management Program Implementation: Comprehensive Recommendations and Practical Strategies.

INTRODUCTION: Blood transfusion is one of the most common medical practices worldwide. However, current scientific literature has shown that the immunomodulatory effects of blood transfusion are associated with an increased likelihood of infection, prolonged hospitalization, and morbimortality. Also, it means high costs for healthcare systems. METHODS: In this context, acknowledging that blood transfusions are essentially heterologous cell transplantations, the use of therapeutic options has gained strength and is collectively known as the patient blood management (PBM) program. PBM is an approach based on three main pillars: (1) treating anemias and coagulopathies in an optimized manner, especially in the preoperative period; (2) optimizing perioperative hemostasis and the use of blood recovery systems to avoid the loss of the patient's blood; (3) anemia tolerance, with improved oxygen delivery and reduced oxygen demand, particularly in the postoperative period. RESULTS: Current scientific evidence supports the effectiveness of PBM by reducing the need for blood transfusions, decreasing associated complications, and promoting more efficient and safer blood management. Thus, PBM not only improves clinical outcomes for patients but also contributes to the economic sustainability of healthcare systems. CONCLUSION: The aim of this review was to summarize PBM strategies in a comprehensive, evidence-based approach through a systematic and structured model for PBM implementation in tertiary hospitals. The recommendations proposed herein are from researchers and experts of a high-complexity university hospital in the network of the Sistema Único de Saúde, presenting itself as a strategy that can be followed as a guideline for PBM implementation in other settings.

Complete Blood Count Values Over Time in Young Children During the Dengue Virus Epidemic in the Dominican Republic From 2018 to 2020.

Background: Dengue fever (DF) is a mosquito-borne illness with substantial economic and societal impact. Understanding laboratory trends of hospitalized Dominican Republic (DR) pediatric patients could help develop screening procedures in low-resourced settings. We sought to describe laboratory findings over time in DR children with DF and DF severity from 2018 to 2020. Methods: Clinical information was obtained prospectively from recruited children with DF. Complete blood count (CBC) laboratory measures were assessed across Days 1-10 of fever. Participants were classified as DF-negative and DF-positive and grouped by severity. We assessed associations of DF severity with demographics, clinical characteristics, and peripheral blood studies. Using linear mixed-models, we assessed if hematologic values/trajectories differed by DF status/severity. Results: A total of 597 of 1101 with a DF clinical diagnosis were serologically evaluated, and 574 (471 DF-positive) met inclusion criteria. In DF, platelet count and hemoglobin were higher on earlier days of fever (p < = 0.0017). Eighty had severe DF. Severe DF risk was associated with thrombocytopenia, intraillness anemia, and leukocytosis, differing by fever day (p < = 0.001). Conclusions: In a pediatric hospitalized DR cohort, we found marked anemia in late stages of severe DF, unlike the typically seen hemoconcentration. These findings, paired with clinical symptom changes over time, may help guide risk-stratified screenings for resource-limited settings.

Evaluation of the hemoglobin cutoff point for anemia in adult women residents of different altitudinal levels in Peru.

BACKGROUND: Anemia prevalence is high in countries where high proportion of the population lives at high altitude (HA) due perhaps to the unsuitability hemoglobin correction factor proposed by the WHO. The present study has been designed to evaluate a new approach to establish thresholds of hemoglobin (Hb) when defining anemia at HA. MATERIALS & METHODS: Cross-sectional study evaluating 217 women aged 18 to 75 years-old, residents of 2 cities at low altitude (LA) (130 and 150 meters) and 2 at HA (3800 and 4300 meters). Hb, pulse oxygen saturation (SpO2), arterial oxygen content (CaO2), and inflammatory markers were measured. Three definitions of anemia diagnoses were used: uncorrected Hb, WHO-corrected Hb, and Silubonde's criteria based on ferritin as a gold standard. STATA v18.0 was use for data analysis, p<0.05 indicated significant difference. RESULTS: HA residents present higher Hb values than at LA. Likewise, the highest area under the curve (AUC) ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristic) was observed for uncorrected Hb (AUC = 0.8595; CI95% 0.858-0.86) for the diagnosis of anemia using serum ferritin as the gold standard. Anemia prevalence was higher when using WHO-corrected Hb, 27%, and Silubonde's criteria, 41% (Hb cut-off of 11.10, 12.73, 15.80 and 16.60 g/dl for altitudes of 130, 150, 3800 and 4300 meters, respectively), than using uncorrected Hb to define anemia (7.7%). Serum Ferritin and CaO2 values are lower only in the group with anemia defined with uncorrected Hb than in the groups of anemia using the WHO-corrected Hb or the Silubonde´s criteria. CONCLUSIONS: The correction factor of hemoglobin for altitude of residence overestimates the prevalence of anemia in adult women. Likewise, CaO2 could be a potential marker to determine the transport of oxygen in LA and HA populations. Further studies in adult men are required to confirm the present findings.

Diagnóstico y manejo de la anemia en el embarazo: estudio comparativo en mujeres de zonas urbanas y rurales / Diagnosis and management of anemia in pregnancy: a comparative study of urban and rural women

Objetivo: Comparar el diagnóstico y manejo de la anemia durante el embarazo en mujeres de zonas urbanas y rurales. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal, basado en un análisis de una encuesta nacional de salud del 2022. Se incluyeron registros de 18 889 mujeres con un embarazo en los últimos 5 años. Se estimaron frecuencias y porcentajes ponderados; además se aplicó la prueba chi cuadrado a un nivel de significancia del 0,05. Resultados: Al 94 % de mujeres se les realizó el descarte de anemia, este procedimiento fue más frecuente en zonas urbanas (94,9 %), comparado a las rurales (91,1 %). La mayor parte de las mujeres no recibió el diagnóstico de anemia, pero no hubo diferencias entre las zonas rurales (29,8 %) y urbanas (28,3 %). Respecto a la indicación y cumplimiento del tratamiento para la anemia, esto fue significativamente mayor en las parejas urbanas, con un porcentaje de 96,7 % y 65,5 %, respectivamente. Conclusión: En las zonas urbanas, fue mayor el porcentaje de mujeres en quienes se realizó descarte de anemia, así como la indicación del tratamiento y su cumplimiento. El diagnóstico de anemia no mostró diferencias entre ambas zonas(AU)

Objective: To compare the diagnosis and management of anemia during pregnancy in urban and rural women. Methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study, based on an analysis of a national health survey from 2022. Records of 18889 women with a pregnancy in the last 5 years were included. Frequencies and weighted percentages were estimated; in addition, the chi-square test was applied at a significance level of 0.05. Results: 94% of women were screened for anemia; this procedure was more frequent in urban areas (94.9%) compared to rural areas (91.1%). Most women were not diagnosed with anemia, but there was no difference between rural (29.8%) and urban (28.3%) areas. Regarding indication and adherence to treatment for anemia, this was significantly higher in urban couples, at 96.7% and 65.5%, respectively. Conclusion: In urban areas, the percentage of women of anemia ruling out, as well as treatment indication and compliance was higher. The diagnosis of anemia showed no differences between the two areas(AU)

Red blood cell transfusions in preterm infants in 2021: a narrative review / Transfusão de células vermelhas em prematuros em 2021: uma revisão narrativa

Anemia is frequent in preterm infants. Red blood cell transfusion practices vary between different centers. The objective of this study was to review red blood cell transfusion practices in preterm infants between 2020 and 2021. This was a narrative review that included studies published on PubMed (Medline) and Web of Science between October 2020 and October 2021. Ten studies were included finally. Red blood cell transfusion frequency was variable. Some neonatal units did not report transfusion protocols. Most studies reported volumes of 10-15 ml/kg per transfusion. The implementation of an anemia care bundle and adoption of restrictive transfusion resulted in a reduction in the number of transfusions, the volume transfused, and a reduction in the rate of multiple transfusions. We suggest that neonatal units that care for preterm infants should have a transfusion protocol based on the best evidence available and this issue may improve.

A anemia é frequente nos bebês prematuros. As práticas de transfusão de glóbulos vermelhos variam entre os diferentes hospitais. O objetivo deste estudo foi revisar as práticas de transfusão de glóbulos vermelhos em bebês prematuros entre 2020 e 2021. Esta foi uma revisão narrativa que incluiu estudos publicados no PubMed (Medline) e Web of Science entre outubro de 2020 e outubro de 2021. Dez estudos foram definitivamente incluídos. A frequência de transfusão de glóbulos vermelhos foi variável. Algumas unidades neonatais não relataram protocolos de transfusão. A maioria dos estudos relatou volumes de 10-15 ml/kg por transfusão. A implantação de um conjunto de cuidados para anemia e a adoção de transfusão restritiva resultaram em uma redução do número de transfusões, do volume transfundido e uma redução na taxa de transfusões múltiplas. Sugerimos que as unidades neonatais que prestam cuidados a bebês prematuros devem ter um protocolo de transfusão baseado em evidências para que todo esse problema melhore.

National and regional population attributable fractions for anemia risk factors (iron, folate, and vitamin B12) in Belize: potential impact of fortification / Fracciones atribuibles poblacionales nacionales y regionales de factores de riesgo de anemia (hierro, folato y vitamina B12) en Belice: posible impacto del enriquecimiento de los alimentos con suplementos / Frações atribuíveis populacionais nacionais e regionais de fatores de risco para anemia (ferro, ácido fólico e vitamina B12) em Belize: potencial impacto da fortificação

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To estimate the national and regional population attributable fraction (PAF) and potential number of preventable anemia cases for three nutritional risk factors (iron, red blood cell folate [RBCF], and vitamin B12 deficiencies) among women of childbearing age in Belize. Methods. A national probability-based household and micronutrient survey capturing sociodemographic and health information was conducted among 937 nonpregnant Belizean women aged 15–49 years. Blood samples were collected to determine hemoglobin, ferritin, alpha-1-glycoprotein (AGP), RBCF, and vitamin B12 status. All analyses used sample weights and design variables to reflect a complex sample survey. Logistic regression was used to determine adjusted prevalence risk (aPR) ratios, which were then used to estimate national and regional PAF for anemia. Results. The overall prevalence of anemia (hemoglobin <12 g/dL) was 21.2% (95% CI [18.7, 25.3]). The prevalence of anemia was significantly greater among women with iron deficiency (59.5%, 95% CI [48.7, 69.5]) compared to women without iron deficiency (15.2%, 95% CI [12.2, 18.3]; aPR 3.9, 95% CI [2.9, 5.1]). The three nutritional deficiencies examined contributed to 34.6% (95% CI [22.1, 47.1]) of the anemia cases. If all these nutritional deficiencies could be eliminated, then an estimated 5 953 (95% CI [3 807, 8 114]) anemia cases could be prevented. Conclusions. This study suggests that among women of child-bearing age in Belize, anemia cases might be reduced by a third if three modifiable nutritional risk factors (iron, RBCF, and vitamin B12 deficiencies) could be eliminated. Fortification is one potential strategy to improve nutritional status and reduce the burden of anemia in this population.

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Calcular la fracción atribuible poblacional a nivel nacional y regional y el número de casos de anemia que podrían prevenirse para tres factores de riesgo nutricional (deficiencia de hierro, folato eritrocitario y vitamina B12) en las mujeres en edad reproductiva en Belice. Metodología. Se llevó a cabo una encuesta probabilística nacional sobre características de los hogares y micronutrientes en la que se recopiló información sociodemográfica y de salud de 937 mujeres beliceñas no embarazadas de entre 15 y 49 años. Se extrajeron muestras de sangre para determinar los niveles de hemoglobina, ferritina, alfa–1–glucoproteína, folato eritrocitario y vitamina B12. En todos los análisis se emplearon ponderaciones muestrales y variables calculadas para tener en cuenta que se trataba de una encuesta con una muestra compleja. Se estimaron mediante regresión logística las razones de riesgos de prevalencia ajustados, que posteriormente se utilizaron para calcular la fracción atribuible poblacional con respecto a la anemia a nivel nacional y regional. Resultados. La prevalencia global de la anemia (hemoglobina <12 g/dl) fue del 21,2% (IC del 95%: 18,7– 25,3). La prevalencia de la anemia fue significativamente mayor en las mujeres con ferropenia (59,5%, IC del 95%: 48,7–69,5) que en las que no tenían ferropenia (15,2%, IC del 95%: 12,2, 18,3); razón de riesgos de prevalencia ajustados = 3.9, IC del 95%; 2,9–5,1). Las tres deficiencias nutricionales examinadas explicaban al 34,6% (IC del 95%: 22,1–47,1) de los casos de anemia. Se estima que si pudieran eliminarse todas estas deficiencias nutricionales, se prevendrían unos 5953 (IC del 95%: 3807–8114) casos de anemia. Conclusiones. Los resultados de este estudio sugieren que los casos de anemia en las mujeres en edad reproductiva de Belice podrían reducirse en un tercio si se pudieran eliminar tres factores de riesgo nutricionales modificables (deficiencias de hierro, folato eritrocitario y vitamina B12). Una posible estrategia para mejorar el estado nutricional y reducir la carga de la anemia en este grupo poblacional es en el enriquecimiento de los alimentos con suplementos.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Estimar a fração atribuível populacional (FAP) nacional e regional e o potencial número de casos preveníveis de anemia para três fatores de risco nutricionais (deficiência de ferro, ácido fólico eritrocitário e vitamina B12) entre mulheres em idade fértil em Belize. Métodos. Realizou-se um inquérito probabilístico domiciliar nacional sobre micronutrientes, que coletou informações sociodemográficas e de saúde de 937 mulheres belizenhas não grávidas com idade entre 15 e 49 anos. Coletaram-se amostras de sangue para dosagem de hemoglobina, ferritina, alfa-1-glicoproteína (AGP), ácido fólico eritrocitário e vitamina B12. Todas as análises usaram variáveis de delineamento e ponderações amostrais para refletir um inquérito amostral complexo. Aplicou-se regressão logística para determinar razões ajustadas de risco de prevalência (RPa), que foram usadas para estimar a FAP nacional e regional para anemia. Resultados. A prevalência geral de anemia (hemoglobina <12 g/dL) foi de 21,2% (IC 95% [18,7–25,3]). A prevalência de anemia foi significativamente maior em mulheres com deficiência de ferro (59,5%, IC 95% [48,7–69,5]) que em mulheres sem deficiência de ferro (15,2%, IC 95% [12,2–18,3]); RPa 3,9, IC 95% [2,9– 5,1]). As três deficiências nutricionais analisadas contribuíram para 34,6% (IC 95% [22,1–47,1]) dos casos de anemia. Caso se eliminassem todas essas deficiências nutricionais, seria possível evitar cerca de 5.953 (IC 95% [3.807–8.114]) casos de anemia. Conclusões. Este estudo sugere que, nas mulheres belizenhas em idade fértil, os casos de anemia poderiam ser reduzidos em um terço caso fosse possível eliminar três fatores de risco nutricionais modificáveis (deficiência de ferro, ácido fólico eritrocitário e vitamina B12). A fortificação é uma possível estratégia para melhorar o estado nutricional e reduzir a carga de anemia nessa população.

Molecular survey of Piroplasmida, Hepatozoon spp. and Anaplasmataceae in anemic and thrombocytopenic dogs from Uruguay.

Canine tick-borne diseases, such as babesiosis, rangeliosis, hepatozoonosis, anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis, are of veterinarian relevance, causing mild or severe clinical cases that can lead to the death of the dog. The aim of this study was detecting tick-borne protozoan and rickettsial infections in dogs with anemia and/or thrombocytopenia in Uruguay. A total of 803 domestic dogs were evaluated, and 10% were found positive (detected by PCR) at least for one hemoparasite. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of four hemoprotozoan species: Rangelia vitalii, Babesia vogeli, Hepatozoon canis and Hepatozoon americanum, and the rickettsial Anaplasma platys. The most detected hemoparasite was R. vitalii, followed by H. canis and A. platys. This is the first report of B. vogeli in Uruguay and the second report of H. americanum in dogs from South America. The results highlight the importance for veterinarians to include hemoparasitic diseases in their differential diagnosis of agents causing anemia and thrombocytopenia.

Determinants of anemia among pregnant women attending a tertiary hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia: unmatched case-control study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with anemia among pregnant women attending a tertiary referral hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia. METHODS: An unmatched case-control study was conducted on pregnant women who visited the antenatal clinics of a tertiary referral hospital between March and July 2021. The study recruited pregnant women who had a hemoglobin level of <11 g/dL into the anemic group, while those with hemoglobin levels ≥11 g/dL were included in the non-anemic group. Demographics, clinical, obstetrics, nutrition-related, hygiene- and sanitation-related, and parasitic infection-related data were collected. RESULTS: A total of 449 pregnant women (399 anemic and 50 non-anemic) participated in the study. A total of 224 (56.7%) in the anemic group and 31 (62.0%) in the non-anemic group did not consume any dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, bukurey, cagaar, and koomboow (p=0.040). Notably, 255 (63.9%) in the anemic group and 21 (42.0%) in the non-anemic group had a middle-upper arm circumference <23 cm. More than half of anemic [335 (84%)] and non-anemic [46 (92.0%)] were classified under low dietary diversity score. Majority of the study participants, 288 (72.4%) of the anemic and 39 (78%) of the non-anemic groups, used pit toilets in dwellings, and 70.2% (134/191) of the anemic and 64.4% (246/382) of the non-anemic groups disposed of solid waste in open fields. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that women who consumed green vegetables such as spinach, bukurey, cagaar, and koomboow in their diet had middle-upper arm circumference less than 23 cm, and those with low dietary diversity significantly developed anemia during pregnancy.

Complicaciones y mortalidad en pacientes neurocríticos / Complications and mortality in neurocritic patients

Objetivo: Relacionar las complicaciones y el riesgo de muerte en pacientes neurocríticos admitidos en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) del Hospital Universitario de Caracas durante un período de 5 meses. Métodos: investigación observacional, prospectiva, descriptiva. La muestra estuvo conformada por 65 pacientes neurocríticos, ≥ 18 años, con patologías médicas o quirúrgicas, ingresados en la UCI. El análisis estadístico incluyó la determinación de frecuencias, promedios, porcentajes y medias para descripción de variables y el T de Student. Resultados: La edad promedio fue 50,98 ± 16,66 años; la población masculinarepresentó el 50,76%. Entre las complicaciones, la mayor incidencia correspondió a las no infecciosas (70,77 %) y los trastornos ácido-básicos de tipo metabólico, la anemia y las alteraciones electrolíticas fueron las más frecuentes; el 29,23% de los pacientes presentaron complicaciones infecciosas, y la neumonía asociada a ventilación mecánica fue la más frecuente (73,91 %). La comorbilidad con mayor incidencia fue hipertensión arterial sistémica (53,84%). El 90.70% requirió ventilación mecánica y el tiempo en VM fue 4.29 ± 6.43 días. La estancia en UCI fue 5.96 ± 7.72 días. El 29,23% presentó un puntaje en la escala APACHE II entre 5-9; el SAPS II presentó mayor incidencia entre los 6-21 y 22-37 puntos con (66,70%); el SOFA al ingreso se reportó < 15 puntos en 98,46% y > 15 en 1,53%. La mortalidad del grupo fue 23,08 % (n=15). Conclusiones: Las complicaciones no infecciosas predominaron sobre las infecciosas las primeras íntimamente relacionadas con la mortalida(AU)

Objective: To relate complications and the risk of death in neurocritical patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the University Hospital of Caracas during a period of 5 months. Methods: observational, prospective, descriptive research. The sample was made up of 65 neurocritical patients, ≥ 18 years old, with medical or surgical pathologies, admitted to the ICU.The statistical analysis included the determination of frequencies, averages, percentages and meansfor description of variables and Student's T.Results: The average age was 50.98 ± 16.66 years; the male population represented 50.76%. Among the complications, the highest incidence corresponded to non-infectious complications (70.77%) and metabolic acid-base disorders, anemia and electrolyte alterations were the most frequent; 29.23% of patients presented infectious complications, and pneumonia associated with mechanical ventilation was the most frequent (73.91%). The comorbidity with the highest incidence was systemic arterial hypertension (53.84%), 90.70% required mechanical ventilation and the time on MV was 4.29 ± 6.43 days. The ICU stay was 5.96 ± 7.72 days. 29.23% had a score on the APACHE II scale between 5-9; SAPS II presented the highest incidence between 6-21 and 22-37 points with (66.70%); The SOFA upon admission was reported to be < 15 points in 98.46% and > 15 in 1.53%. The mortality of the group was 23.08% (n=15). Conclusions: Non-infectious complications predominated over infectious complications, the former being closely related to mortalit(AU)

Overview of Trends in Anemia and Iron Deficiency in the Mexican Population From 1999 to 2018-19.

BACKGROUND: Despite the emergence of diverse programs in Mexico to address anemia and micronutrient deficiencies in disadvantaged groups, progress on reducing their prevalence has stagnated. In Mexico, anemia surveillance at the population level is conducted through the National Health and Nutrition Survey ENSANUT (for its acronym in Spanish). OBJECTIVE: To overview the trends in anemia and iron deficiency (ID) from 1999 to 2018-19 in the Mexican population before COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: Data from five nationwide surveys in Mexico were used. Where available, data on anemia, ID, and ID anemia (IDA) were extracted from ENSANUTs 1999, 2006, 2012, 2016, and 2018-19 in participants from 1 to 99 years old. Blood sample collection methods were similar across surveys (1999-2018) where capillary drop blood was used to estimate Hb using a HemoCue and serum blood samples to measure ferritin and C-reactive protein concentration. RESULTS: The trend in anemia prevalence shows a U-shape from 1999 to 2018-19 in <60 years old. In older adults (≥60 years), an increasing trend was observed. Anemia declined progressively from 1999 to 2012 but increased from 2016 to 2018-19 in comparison with 2012. In contrast, ID declined from 2006 to 2018-19, mainly in children, while IDA did not change over this period. In older adults, ID prevalence remained constant over time. CONCLUSIONS: The shifting trend in anemia prevalence across ENSANUTs 1999 through 2018-19 did not mimic the decreasing trend of ID over the same period of time. Other noncausal factors seem to play an important role in the variability of hemoglobin measurements.

Plain language titleOverview of Trends in the Prevalence of Anemia and Iron Deficiency in the Mexican Population From 1999 to 2018-19Plain language summaryIn Mexico, anemia surveillance has been monitored through the National Health and Nutrition Survey since 1999. Nonetheless, progress on reducing their prevalence seems to be stagnated despite the emergence of diverse social programs in Mexico to tackle micronutrient deficiencies in children and women. The main cause of anemia in children and women is iron deficiency (ID). Any progress in tackling ID should be reflected in anemia prevalence. To investigate the prevalence trend, we used information about anemia (based on hemoglobin concentration) and ID (based on serum ferritin levels) where available, from 5 nationwide surveys in Mexico among participants from 1 to 99 years old, to discuss some of the potential factors behind anemia and ID trends. From 1999 to 2018-19, we observed an ¨U" shape in the prevalence of anemia in all age groups <60 years old, contrasting with the prevalence of ID, which trend is in decline. No major changes in terms of social programs can explain the trend in anemia. In fact, other nutritional indicators seem to have improved in Mexican children. A major difference in the measurement of anemia and ID is that hemoglobin was measured in situ using drop of capillary blood in HemoCue, a portable photometer, while ferritin was measured in venous blood in the central laboratory. While many external factors might influence the hemoglobin measurement in the field setting, it seems that the technique of finger prick capillary introduces more errors to the measurement of hemoglobin than other techniques (e.g., pool capillary or venous blood using HemoCue). This difference, in turn, affects anemia diagnosis. Since the drop of capillary blood has been widely acceptable, we did not perform any validation of hemoglobin measurement in those past surveys, so we cannot role out the contribution of other factors that affected hemoglobin measurement. Future studies should use venous blood to improve anemia classification; otherwise, validation studies should be carried out to improve hemoglobin measurement when using capillary blood.

Asociación de parásitos intestinales con síndrome anémico en niños escolares: Una revisión sistemática de la literatura / The association between intestinal parasites and anemic syndrome in schoolchildren: A literature systematic review / Associação de parasitoses intestinais com síndrome anêmica em escolares: Revisão sistemática da literatura

Introducción: Las parasitosis intestinales y la anemia son un problema de salud pública mundial. Estos parásitos tienen tropismo hacia el intestino delgado, afectan la absorción de micronutrientes durante la eritropoyesis, produciendo la aparición de un síndrome anémico por un recuento bajo de glóbulos rojos y déficit de hemoglobina. Objetivo: Establecer la asociación de la infección por parásitos intestinales y síndrome anémico en niños en edad escolar. Materiales y métodos: Búsq ueda sistemática de literatura publicada entre 2010-2021 sobre asociación entre infección por parásitos intestinales y síndrome anémico en escolares. Resultados: Se identificó 1151 publicaciones, al aplicar los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, se redujeron a 33, encontrándose 9 agentes asociados a anemia, siendo A. lumbricoides (27,27%), A. duodenalis y T. trichiura los helmintos más prevalentes, y G. duodenalis (6,06%) el protozoario más común. El 39,39% de los estudios incluyó ambos agentes. África (21), Asia (6), Sudamérica (5) y Centroamérica (1) tienen la mayoría de publicaciones. Se observa asociación significativa entre infección parasitaria y la anemia IC=95%. Conclusión: La evidencia demuestra alta prevalencia de anemias carenciales de tipo ferropénica y megaloblástica, con asociación significativa entre un mayor porcentaje de infecciones por helmintos y síndrome anémico, en comparación con infecciones por protozoos.

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infections and anemia are a global public health problem. These parasites have a tropism for the small intestine, which affects the micronutrients absorption during erythropoiesis and causes an anemic syndrome due to a low red blood cell count and hemoglobin deficiency. Objective: To establish the association of intestinal parasite infection and anemic syndrome in schoolchildren. Materials and methods: Systematic search of literature published between 2010 and 2021 about the association between intestinal parasitic infections and anemic syndrome in schoolchildren. Results: 1151 publications were identified, which were reduced to 33 when the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. There were 9 parasites, and the helminths commonly associated with anemia were A. lumbricoides (27.27%), A. duodenalis y T. trichiura, whereas G. duodenalis (6.06%) was the most frequent protozoan. The regions with most publications were Africa (21), Asia (6), South America (5), and Central America (1). There was a significant association between parasitic infection and anemia (CI=95%). Conclusion: High prevalence of deficiency anemia, such as iron deficiency and megaloblastic anemia, was observed. Also, there was a significant association between a higher percentage of helminth infections and anemic syndrome compared to infections caused by protozoans.

Introdução: Parasitas intestinais e anemia constituem um problema global de saúde pública. Esses parasitas têm tropismo para o intestino delgado, afetam a absorção de micronutrientes durante a eritropoiese, produzindo o aparecimento de uma síndrome anêmica devido à baixa contagem de glóbulos vermelhos e à deficiência de hemoglobina. Objetivo: Estabelecer a associação entre infecção por parasitas intestinais e síndrome anêmica em crianças em idade escolar. Materiais e métodos: Pesquisa sistemática da literatura publicada entre 2010-2021 sobre a associação entre infecção por parasitas intestinais e síndrome anêmica em escolares. Resultados: foram identificadas 1.151 publicações, ao aplicar os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram reduzidos para 33, encontrando 9 agentes associados à anemia, sendo A. lumbricoides (27,27%), A. duodenalis e T. trichiura os helmintos mais prevalentes e G. duodenalis (6,06%) o protozoário mais comum. 39,39% dos estudos incluíram ambos os agentes. África (21), Ásia (6), América do Sul (5) e América Central (1) têm o maior número de publicações. Observa-se associação significativa entre infecção parasitária e anemia IC=95%. Conclusão: As evidências mostram alta prevalência de anemias ferroprivas e megaloblásticas, com associação significativa entre maior percentual de infecções helmínticas e síndrome anêmica, em comparação com infecções por protozoários.

Etiologies and Outcomes of Normocytic Anemia in Children.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize the evaluation and outcomes of children referred to pediatric hematology for normocytic anemia. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study of children aged 0-21 years referred to a tertiary pediatric hematology clinic for normocytic anemia from 2019 through 2021. Normocytic anemia was defined as a low hemoglobin and normal mean corpuscular volume, per the referring laboratory reference range. RESULTS: Two-hundred seventy-one patients (48% female, median age 5.4 years) were included. The most common hematologic diagnoses included iron deficiency (n = 90, 33%), statistical anemia (n = 64, 24%), transient marrow suppression (n = 36, 13%), and transient erythroblastopenia of childhood (TEC, n = 19, 7%). There were 17 (6%) patients in whom anemia was thought to be secondary to a nonhematologic disorder and therefore were referred to another pediatric specialty. Sixteen patients (6%) had anemia which spontaneously resolved without an underlying etiology being identified. Aside from iron deficient patients, 35 (13%) had diagnoses requiring ongoing hematology care including transient erythroblastopenia of childhood, hemolytic anemia, Diamond Blackfan Anemia, and abnormal beta globin traits. Two-hundred fifty-one patients (93%) were discharged from hematology care after a median of 25 days (range 0-2124 days). CONCLUSION: Pediatric patients with normocytic anemia have diverse underlying etiologies with iron deficiency being most common. These data support initial management within the primary care setting including assessment of a serum ferritin, iron panel, and reticulocyte count, with only a subset of patients requiring ongoing subspecialty care.

Is postpartum depression related to total weight gain during pregnancy and maternal anemia?

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the effects of weight gain and maternal anemia on postpartum depression. METHODS: This is a prospective, single-center, case-control study. We recorded the demographic characteristics, blood ferritin level, and weight gain during the pregnancy. This study was planned between April 2023 and June 2023 in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic of Ankara Etlik City Hospital. A total of 109 patients were enrolled in the study. Patients were assessed with the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale. Weight gain, nutritional education, educational level, mode of delivery, and pregnancy history were asked in person. Ferritin levels at the onset of labor were determined to detect anemia. Twin births, births due to fetal anomalies or intrauterine stillbirths, patients with systemic infections, and patients diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder in the past 6 months whose records were not accessible were excluded from the study. RESULTS: Pregnancy weight gain and percentage of pregnancy weight gain were higher. Serum ferritin levels and nutritional education during pregnancy were lower in the postpartum depression group (p<0.001). These parameters with statistical significance were identified as risk factors in the regression analysis for postpartum depression (p<0.05). In receiver operating characteristics analysis, >15 kg for weight gain, >28.8 for percentage of weight gain in pregnancy, and <19 ng/dL for serum ferritin level were identified as cutoff values (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Nutritional education and vitamin supplementation should be recommended to pregnant women during routine examinations.

Letter to the editor: will it be possible to achieve the global nutrition targets in Mexico by 2030?

In May 2012, the 65th World Health Assembly (WHA) approved six global nutrition targets by 2025 aimed to reduce stunting in children under five by 40%, maintain childhood wasting below 5%, halt obesity, cut anemia in women by 50%, lower low birth weight prevalence by 30%, and increase exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) within the first 6 months to 50%. These targets were extended to 2030, with all of them remaining as originally planned, but the EBF one (increased to 70%), wasting and overweight (both objectives set to eliminate them to negligible concern). Mexico is projected to achieve only one of the six nutrition targets (wasting) by 2025, falling far short of the stunting, low birth weight, anemia, and exclusive breastfeeding for the updated goals by 2030. This letter to the editor describes the most recent prevalence of malnutrition among mothers and children in Mexico. It discusses the challenges pregnant women and children under five years of age face exercising their right to good food, nutrition, and development. The authors reflect on the urgent need to make structural changes to achieve the global nutrition targets by 2030, highlighting the paramount importance of addressing the profound structural obstacles in Mexico and how Mexico's government must prioritize poverty reduction, reduce the marked inequalities, enhance the quality of nutritional care and healthcare infrastructure, and implement climate-resilient agricultural practices to address this pressing issue.

Demographic Characteristics and Low Iron Status Markers Are Associated with Hemoglobin Levels and Anemia among Children Living at High Elevation in Cusco, Peru.

Anemia is a complex condition associated with diet, chronic infections, and blood loss. Children living at high altitudes have higher absolute hemoglobin levels due to hypoxemia. However, they are exposed to repeated infections and dietary limitations. We conducted a cross-sectional study to identify factors affecting the hemoglobin concentration in children living in high-altitude rural communities in the Anta province of Peru. All children 3-16 years of age attending public schools were invited to participate. We enrolled children 3-16 years old in schools and visited their homes to collect demographic, socioeconomic, medical history, and anthropometric data. Children provided blood and stool samples for complete blood counts, iron status markers, and helminth infection testing. Among the 2,000 children enrolled, the mean age was 9.9 (±3.4) years, 1,004 (50.2%) were female, and the median residence altitude was 3,398 (interquartile range 3,35-3,497) meters. The mean hemoglobin level was 15 (±1.15) mg/dL; 320 (16%) had anemia as defined by WHO. Children with anemia were more likely to have lower serum iron levels (odds ratio [OR] 2.8 [95% CI 2.2-3.6], P <0.001) and serum transferrin saturation (OR 2.8 [95% CI 2-3.9], P <0.001). Younger age (OR 0.85 [95% CI 0.82-0.89], P <0.001), stunting (OR 0.68 [95% CI 0.59-0.79], P <0.001), education of the mother (OR 0.94 [95% CI 0.91-0.98], P <0.005), and low eosinophils (OR 0.49 [95% CI 0.26-0.9], P = 0.022) were associated with anemia. Helminth infections were not associated with anemia. Anemia among children at high altitude is multifactorial, but iron deficiency is a contributing factor. Further studies are needed to evaluate iron status and anemia in children living at high altitudes.

Successful Clozapine Rechallenge After Clozapine-Induced Severe Anemia: A Case Report.

INTRODUCTION: Clozapine, a second-generation antipsychotic (SGA), is considered the gold standard medication to treat patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). Despite its efficacy, clozapine is associated with adverse effects, notably neutropenia and agranulocytosis. Other hematological adverse effects are less common. Severe anemia is a rare adverse effect seldom reported in the literature and is typically associated with pure red cell aplasia (PRCA). Nevertheless, the benefits of clozapine in managing TRS make rechallenge a reasonable option. CASE REPORT: We present the case of a 35-year-old man with TRS, resistant to previous antipsychotics, who experienced severe anemia during clozapine treatment. An investigation for clozapine-induced anemia revealed PRCA on myelogram. After discontinuing clozapine, the patient's hemoglobin levels recovered. Subsequent treatments with olanzapine, zuclopenthixol, and aripiprazole proved ineffective, leading us to consider a clozapine rechallenge. The rechallenge, monitored for 58 days, resulted in improved psychiatric symptoms and stable hemoglobin levels. The patient remained stable during 6 months of follow-up, with no hematological changes. DISCUSSION: PRCA is a very rare adverse effect of clozapine. The cause of drug-induced PRCA is still unknown; for clozapine, there are no studies. Rechallenge after a severe and rare adverse effect is a complex decision. This case is the first to report a successful clozapine rechallenge following severe anemia without other blood dyscrasias, emphasizing the imperative need for close monitoring during the rechallenge process. Further study is warranted to understand the predictive factors for a successful outcome in clozapine rechallenges.

Características de los niños hospitalizados que recibieron transfusiones de sangre desplasmatizada durante el 2019: Hospital Pediátrico-Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell / Characteristics of hospitalized children who received deplasmatized blood transfusions during 2019: Hospital Pediátrico-Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell / Características das crianças hospitalizadas que receberam transfusões de sangue desplasmatizado durante 2019: Hospital Pediátrico-Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell

Introducción: la terapia transfusional es un procedimiento terapéutico que ha contribuido a disminuir la mortalidad, y mejorar la calidad de vida de pacientes con diversas patologías. La utilización de guías en la práctica transfusional, contribuye a la utilización racional de las mismas. Objetivo: describir las características de los niños de 1 mes a 14 años 11 meses hospitalizados en el Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell durante el 2019 que recibieron transfusión de sangre desplasmatizada. Metodología: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo. Se incluyeron los niños entre 1 mes y 14 años 11 meses asistidos en emergencia, unidad de reanimación, cuidados moderados, intermedios e intensivos del Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell. Variables: edad, sexo, área de asistencia, motivo de ingreso, indicación de transfusión, cifras de Hb pre y post-transfusión, clasificación de la anemia, dosis. Resultados: se incluyeron 160 transfusiones correspondientes a 97 pacientes, 56% eran de sexo masculino. Media de edad 3 años, 52% < 1 año. El motivo de ingreso más frecuente fue patología respiratoria infecciosa 37%. El 79% fueron transfundidos en unidad de cuidados intermedios e intensivos. Media Hb pre-transfusión 7,45 g/dL y post-transfusión de 10,1 g/dL. Predominó la anemia moderada, normocítica-normocrómica, pura. La dosis media de sangre desplasmatizada transfundida fue 12 cc/kg. Conclusiones: en esta serie predominaron los pacientes de sexo masculino y menores a un año que ingresaron principalmente por patología respiratoria infecciosa. La mayoría de los pacientes transfundidos estaban en cuidados intensivos. Futuros estudios, de diseño prospectivo, que incluyan pacientes de todos los escenarios asistenciales y de otros prestadores de salud, contribuirán a continuar el estudio de los pacientes transfundidos y a la elaboración de recomendaciones o protocolos locales.

Introduction: Transfusion therapy is a therapeutic procedure that has contributed to reducing mortality and improving the quality of life of patients with various pathologies. The use of guides in transfusion practice contributes to their rational use. Objective: To describe the characteristics of children from 1 month to 14 years 11 months who were hospitalized in the Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell during 2019 who received a red blood cell transfusion. Methodology: Retrospective descriptive study. Children aged 1 month to 14 years and 11 months assisted in the emergency, moderate, intermediate and intensive care of the Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell were included in the study. Variables: age, sex, area of care, reason for admission, indication for transfusion, Hb figures before and after transfusion, classification of anaemia, dose. The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee. Results:160 transfusions corresponding to 97 patients were included, 56% were male. Mean age 3 years, 52% <1 year. The most frequent reason for admission was infectious respiratory disease 37%. 79% were transfused in the intermediate and intensive care unit. Mean Hb pre-transfusion 7.45 g/dL and post- transfusion of 10.1 g/dL. Moderate, normocytic-normochromic, pure anaemia predominated. The mean dose of deplasmatized blood transfused was 12 cc/kg. Conclusions: In this series, male patients less than one year of age predominated, admitted mainly for infectious respiratory disease. Most of the transfused patients were in intensive care. Future studies of prospective design that include patients from all healthcare settings and from other healthcare providers, will contribute to continuing the study of transfused patients and to the development of local recommendations or protocols.

Introdução: a terapia transfusional é um procedimento terapêutico que tem contribuído para reduzir a mortalidade e melhorar a qualidade de vida de pacientes com diversas patologias. A utilização de diretrizes na prática transfusional contribui para o seu uso racional. Objetivo: descrever as características das crianças de 1 mês a 14 anos e 11 meses internadas no Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell durante o ano de 2019 que receberam transfusão de sangue desplasmatizado. Metodologia: estudo descritivo retrospectivo. Foram incluídas crianças com idade entre 1 mês e 14 anos e 11 meses atendidas na emergência, unidade de reanimação, cuidados moderados, intermediários e intensivos do Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell. Variáveis: idade, sexo, área de atendimento, motivo da admissão, indicação de transfusão, valores de Hb pré e pós-transfusão, classificação da anemia, dose. Resultados: foram incluídas 160 transfusões correspondentes a 97 pacientes, 56% eram do sexo masculino. A idade média foi de 3 anos, 52% < 1 ano. O motivo mais frequente de admissão foi pato- logia respiratória infecciosa (37%). 79% foram transfundidos na unidade de tratamento intermediário e intensivo. Hb média pré-transfusional de 7,45 g/dL e Hb pós-transfusional de 10,1 g/dL. Predominou a anemia moderada, normocítica-normocrômica e pura. A dose média de sangue desplasmatizado transfundida foi de 12 cc/kg. Conclusões: nesta série, houve uma predominância de pacientes do sexo masculino com menos de um ano de idade que foram admitidos principalmente por patologia respiratória infecciosa. A maioria dos pacientes transfundidos estava em tratamento intensivo. Estudos prospectivos futuros incluindo pacientes de todos os ambientes de atendimento e outros presta- dores de serviços de saúde, contribuirão para um estudo mais aprofundado dos pacientes transfundidos e para o desenvolvimento de recomendações ou protocolos locais.