DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2016.v04i01.047

Pages: 260-265

The aim of the study was to evaluate the various etiologies of anemia in children and determine the significance of various associated factors. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 30 anemic children aged six months to 14 years admitted in a tertiary care hospital. Children with fever and other signs of inflammation were excluded. Hemoglobin, serum iron, ferritin, total iron binding capacity, vitamin B12, folic acid, and reticulocyte count were measured. Details regarding breastfeeding habits, age of weaning, worm infestation, and pica were obtained. In results although 56.7% of the children presented with only iron deficiency, 44.3% presented with other etiologies, such as folate deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, hemolytic anemia, and anemia of chronic disease. Breastfeeding, weaning, history of pica and worm infestation did not show any association with the occurrence of iron deficiency anemia. In conclusion Due to the multifactorial etiology of anemia, a thorough evaluation must be carried out before treating the patient. Though anemia is predominantly triggered by iron deficiency, other causes cannot be neglected. Awareness regarding appropriate breastfeeding and weaning practices as well as the effects of pica and worm infestation on iron levels may lower the incidence of iron deficiency anemia in children.