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Published on: March 14, 2017
Severe iron deficiency anaemia and ischaemic stroke in children
P Munot1, C De Vile, C Hemingway
1Neurology Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, London, UK. munotp@gosh.nhs.uk
Insights
Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is linked to developmental issues and rarely stroke in young children. This study highlights IDA as a significant, treatable risk factor for childhood stroke.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Hematology
- Child Health
Background:
- Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) affects 4-8% of children aged 1-3 years.
- IDA is associated with developmental delay, lethargy, irritability, and cognitive issues.
- IDA is a rarely reported risk factor for stroke in healthy children.
Observation:
- A series of four young children (14-48 months) with significant IDA were studied.
- Three children experienced venous sinus thrombosis.
- One child suffered an arterial ischaemic stroke.
- No other risk factors for stroke were identified in these children.
Findings:
- The study consolidates evidence linking IDA to childhood stroke.
- IDA presents a significant risk factor for cerebrovascular events in pediatric populations.
- The identified cases underscore the importance of screening for IDA in children with stroke.
Implications:
- Highlights IDA as an easily treatable and preventable cause of childhood stroke.
- Suggests increased vigilance for IDA in pediatric stroke cases.
- Emphasizes the need for early diagnosis and management of IDA to prevent severe neurological complications.
Abstract:
Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) has a peak prevalence of 4-8% in children aged 1-3 years of age and is known to be associated with developmental delay, lethargy, irritability and cognitive problems. Rarely, IDA has also been reported as a risk factor for stroke in otherwise healthy children. We report a series of four young children aged 14 months to 48 months with significant IDA. Three children had venous sinus thrombosis and one had arterial ischaemic stroke, without other risk factors. We discuss the potential underlying mechanisms and review the relevant literature. This report further consolidates the evidence for a strong association between IDA and childhood stroke and highlights an easily treatable (and preventable) risk factor.
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Disorders of Erythrocytes
Erythrocyte disorders can be broadly categorized into two main types: anemic and polycythemic conditions.
A low oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood due to the loss, lower production, or destruction of erythrocytes is termed anemia. Hemorrhagic anemia, for example, occurs when bleeding from an external wound or internal ulcer reduces erythrocyte counts.
On the other...

