Frequency of Iron Deficiency Anemia among The microcytic Hypochromic Anemia in Children Referr to Albolok Hospital

Abstract

This was descriptive hospital based study, conducted in Albolok teaching hospital, during the period from September 2008 to March 2009. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of iron deficiency anemia among the micocytic hypochromic anemia, in children under the age of 10 years who referring to Albolok hospital. 100 patients (55%males and 45%females) were informed about the study and agreement for participation was obtained. The study population was divided to four groups, less than one year, (1-4), (4-8) and (8-10) years. Venous bloods of 5ml were bled (2.5ml in EDTA containers and 2.5ml in plain containers) and investigated for iron deficiency anemia. Complete blood counts (CBC), serum iron and serum ferritin concentrations were carried out. Fully automated hematological analyzer (Mythic18) was used for the CBC analysis, and fully automated Biosystem A25 was used for the serum iron profile analysis. The results found that the frequency of iron deficiency anemia was 14%. The age group from 1-4 years represents the highest percentage (57%). The means of Hb concentration, PCV, MCV, MCH, serum iron and serum ferritin concentrations, when compared with standard reference values, there were significant differences (P value <0.05) in all age groups. In conclusion iron deficiency anemia did not highly frequent among the study population.