Clinicohematological Profile of Anemia in Pediatric (Newborn to Eighteen Years) Age Group

Introduction: Anemia is worldwide public health issue of substantial importance. It is an ancient disease, and commonest multifactorial ailment of mankind seen all over the world. Early diagnosis of anemia in pediatric age allows to prevent its complications specially in a growing period and helps to guide further management. 1 Aim: To study the clinicohematological profile of anemia in pediatric (newborn to eighteen years) age group at tertiary care centre. Objectives: To study occurrence of anemias in pediatric (newborn to eighteen years) age group and classify these morphologically. To study etiology of anemia in pediatric (newborn to eighteen years) age group with clinicohematological correlation Material & Methods: Present study was conducted in the Department of Pathology at Krishna Medical Research Center on blood samples received from 176 patients with anemia in the age group of newborn to eighteen years. Hematological (CBC, Peripheral smear, Reticulocyte count, Bone marrow aspiration, HPLC) and biochemical (Serum ferritin, Serum iron, TIBC, Vitamin B12) investigations were done. Data so collected was tabulated in an excel sheet and was analysed. Results: 110 (62.5%) males had anemia while 66 cases (37.5%) were females. Maximum 54 cases (30.68%) were found within the age group of 1-5 years. Maximum 78 cases (48.32%) of moderate degree of anemia were present. Microcytic Hypochromic anemia with 84 cases (47.73%) was the most common morphological type. Iron deficiency anemia was more prevalent with 63 cases (35.79%) followed by anemia of chronic inflammation/infection with 49 cases (27.84%). Weakness, easy fatiguability, irritability were the most common symptoms presented by 145 cases (82.39%). Pallor was the commonest sign observed in 176 cases (100%). Conclusion: Hematological and Biochemical investigations can be used for early diagnosis of anemia. Which allows timely initiation of optimal and appropriate therapy which can prevent further complications of anemia. Preventive programme for control of anemia in pediatric age group should be made accompanied by measures of providing appropriate nutritional requirements. Key words: Anemia, Pediatric age group, CBC.