Ferric Carboxymaltose Across All Ages in Paediatric Gastroenterology Shows Efficacy Without Increased Safety Concerns

Natasha Sasankan1, Hazel Duncan1, Lee Curtis1

  • 1Royal Hospital for Children.

Insights

Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) effectively corrects iron deficiency anemia in pediatric gastroenterology patients. This treatment is safe and well-tolerated across all age groups, with minimal side effects when monitored carefully.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Hepatology
  • Nutrition
  • Hematology

Background:

  • Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common condition in children, often requiring effective treatment.
  • Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is an intravenous iron formulation used for IDA.
  • Assessing FCM's efficacy and safety in pediatric gastroenterology is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in treating iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in children and adolescents.
  • To determine the side-effect profile of FCM in this pediatric population.
  • To assess FCM's utility across various pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition indications.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study of pediatric gastroenterology patients (<18 years) treated with FCM from October 2015 to October 2017.
  • Collection and analysis of hematological and biochemical parameters pre-infusion and at multiple time points post-infusion (4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year).
  • Documentation of any recognized side-effects associated with FCM administration.

Main Results:

  • Sixty-one pediatric patients received FCM, with a median age of 14 years.
  • Median hemoglobin increased significantly from 108 to 126 g/L at 1 month post-infusion (P < 0.00001).
  • 94% of children corrected their anemia; 3% reported minor side effects like bruising and staining.

Conclusions:

  • Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is an effective treatment for IDA in children across diverse gastroenterology indications and age groups.
  • FCM is generally well-tolerated, even in very young patients.
  • Careful monitoring during infusions can help prevent potential side effects.
Abstract

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