A General Pediatrician's Approach to Anemia in Childhood

Pediatr Ann. 2020 Jan 1;49(1):e10-e16. doi: 10.3928/19382359-20191212-01.

Abstract

Anemia may be defined as a reduction in red blood cell mass or blood hemoglobin concentration. Physiologically, this represents a hemoglobin level that is too low to meet cellular oxygen demands. Practically, the lower limit of normal is set at 2 standard deviations below the mean based on age, gender, and ethnicity/race. Anemia can lead to impaired growth, development, and poor neurocognitive outcome. As such, it is essential for pediatricians to recognize and conduct appropriate testing for a child with anemia. [Pediatr Ann. 2020;49(1):e10-e16.].

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anemia / classification*
  • Anemia / diagnosis*
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Pediatricians