Korean J Pediatr.  2005 Feb;48(2):121-125.

Differential Diagnosis and Treatment of Anemia in Children

• Lim YT

Abstract

Anemia can be defined as a reduction in blood hemoglobin concentration or red cell mass relative to age matched normal values. Clinical presentation may range from obviously pale and lethargy to an incidental finding during screening of an otherwise well appearing child. The differential diagnosis of anemia in each instance is broad with numerous possible etiologies. A careful history and physical examination as well as complete blood count, peripheral blood smear and additional laboratory tests are necessary in defining underlying cause of the anemia and guide in further treatment plans. In addition, Iron deficiency anemia and anemia of inflammation are common causes of mild to moderate anemia in children, but most pediatricians have some confusions to differentiate these two entities.

Keyword

Anemia; Differential diagnosis; Iron deficiency anemia; Anemia of inflammation

MeSH Terms

Anemia*
Anemia, Iron-Deficiency
Blood Cell Count
Child*
Diagnosis, Differential*
Erythrocyte Volume
Humans
Incidental Findings
Inflammation
Lethargy
Mass Screening
Physical Examination
Reference Values