Clinico - hematological profile of severe anemia in children (6 months – 14 years): a hospital-based prospective observational study.

Abstract

Background:

Severe anemia in childhood remains a major public health challenge, particularly in developing nations like India. It significantly impacts growth, cognitive development, and morbidity. Understanding the clinical and hematological spectrum of severe anemia is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.

 Objectives

To assess the clinical presentation, hematological profile, and etiological factors of severe anemia in children aged 6 months to 14 years attending a tertiary care hospital.

 Methods

This hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at IMS & SUM Hospital, Bhubaneswar, from December 2022 to June 2024. One hundred children aged 6 months–14 years with severe anemia (Hb <7 g/dL in 6–59 months; <8 g/dL in 5–14 years, as per WHO) were enrolled. Clinical features were recorded, and laboratory investigations, including CBC, peripheral smear, iron profile, vitamin B12/folate levels, and HPLC, were analyzed. Data were statistically examined using IBM SPSS 25.0, with p<0.05 considered significant.

 Results

Most patients (57%) belonged to 6–14 years, with a nearly equal sex ratio (M: F = 1.04:1). A majority (86%) were from lower socioeconomic strata, and 68% were from rural areas. Pallor (100%), fatigue (84%), and fever (60%) were predominant symptoms. Microcytic hypochromic anemia (64%) was the most common hematological pattern, followed by normocytic normochromic (18%) and dimorphic (12%). Iron deficiency (52%) was the leading cause, followed by hemoglobinopathies (26%), megaloblastic anemia (12%), and hemolytic anemia (6%).

 Conclusion

Iron deficiency remains the principal cause of severe anemia among children in low socioeconomic and rural settings. Routine hematological profiling, nutritional interventions, and community-level screening can significantly reduce disease burden and improve outcomes.