Frequency of Iron Deficiency Anemia Among Microcytic Hypochromic Anemias in Children Referred to Gaafer Ibn Auf Hospital

Abstract

This study was descriptive hospital based study, conducted in Gaafer Ibn Auf pediatric hospital, during the period from November 2008 to April 2009. The aim of this study is to determine the frequancy of iron deficiency anemia among microcytic hypochromic anemia, in children that referring to Gaafer Ibn Auf pediatric hospital. 100 patients (52 males and 48 females) were informed about the study and agreement for participation was obtained. Venous blood of 5ml was bled, 2.5ml in EDTA containers for complete blood count and 2.5ml in plain containers for serum iron and serum ferrtin . Fully automated hematology analyzer (mythic 18), and fully automated Biosystem A25 were used for the analysis. The results found that the frequency of iron deficiency anemia was 13% while 87% represent other typed of microcytic hypochromic anemia. The age from 18-24 months represent high percentage (23%). The mean of Hb concentration, PCV, MCV, MCH, MCHC, serum iron and serum ferritin concentrations, when compare with standard reference values, there were significant differences (P value <0.05). In conclusion iron deficiency anemia did not highly frequent among the study population.