Upper endoscopy may effectively diagnose iron deficiency anemia in children
Anemia is a common health problem in children. Among children in developed countries, the prevalence of iron deficiency in children <=4 years is estimated to be 20.1%, while the rate increases to 39% in developing countries the most common cause of anemia is not getting enough iron.
A new retrospective study reports the positive diagnostic yield of upper endoscopy in children with severe, unexplained iron deficiency anemia. The study was, presented at United European Gastroenterology Week 2023 in Copenhagen, Denmark, upper endoscopy allowed for the identification of the cause of iron deficiency anemia in more than 70% of children in the study.
Researchers n the current analysis, aimed to assess the diagnostic yield of upper endoscopy in children with severe, unexplained iron deficiency anemia, without gastrointestinal bleeding. They performed a retrospective study of children <18 years hospitalized with hemoglobin <7 gr/dL, who underwent upper endoscopy between 2016 and 2022. They collected baseline data on demographics, symptoms, laboratory results, endoscopic/histopathological findings, and treatment. They also identified follow-up data, including hemoglobin at 6 months and the need for repeat iron treatment. A total of 25 children with severe iron deficiency were evaluated for the analysis. Participants had a mean age of 10.7 years, 19 (76%) were female, and 8 (32%) were of Ethiopian origin.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.