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Neurologic manifestations of iron deficiency in childhood
Jerome Y Yager1, Dawn S Hartfield
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Saskatchewan;, Saskatoon, Canada
Insights
Iron deficiency in children often causes neurologic issues beyond anemia, including developmental delays and stroke. Early diagnosis and treatment of pediatric iron deficiency are crucial for preventing neurological complications.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Hematology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Iron deficiency is a prevalent condition in pediatric populations.
- While commonly associated with anemia, it significantly impacts neurological function.
- Neurological manifestations are often overlooked in routine pediatric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology of iron deficiency concerning brain development and function.
- To highlight the association between iron deficiency and common pediatric neurological disorders.
- To emphasize the importance of considering iron deficiency in the differential diagnosis of pediatric neurological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on iron deficiency and pediatric neurology.
- Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms linking iron to brain health.
- Synthesis of clinical evidence associating iron deficiency with specific neurological conditions.
Main Results:
- Iron deficiency contributes to developmental delay, stroke, breath-holding spells, pseudotumor cerebri, and cranial nerve palsies.
- The underlying pathophysiology involves impaired neurotransmitter synthesis and myelination.
- Delayed diagnosis of iron deficiency can lead to persistent neurological deficits.
Conclusions:
- Iron deficiency is a critical, often missed, diagnosis in pediatric neurology.
- Addressing iron deficiency can prevent or ameliorate significant neurological problems in children.
- Increased awareness and screening for iron deficiency are essential in pediatric neurological practice.
Abstract:
Iron deficiency is a common disorder in pediatric patients. Although the most common manifestation is that of anemia, iron deficiency is frequently the source of a host of neurologic disorders presenting to general pediatric neurologic practices. These disorders include developmental delay, stroke, breath-holding episodes, pseudotumor cerebri, and cranial nerve palsies. Although frequent, the identification of iron deficiency as part of the differential diagnosis in these disorders is uncommon and frequently goes untreated. The purpose of the current review is to highlight what is understood regarding iron deficiency and it's underlying pathophysiology as it relates to the brain, and the association of iron deficiency with common neurologic pediatric disease.