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Updated: Jun 6, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
19:15

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale

Published on: August 25, 2014

Emergiquiz: Toddler With a Limp

Elizabeth H Hendrickson1, Nicholas Rutowicz2, Rashida Woods3

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL.

Pediatric Emergency Care
|June 5, 2026
PubMed

Insights

A toddler presented with anemia and refusal to walk, leading to the discovery of two rare, treatable conditions. Early diagnosis of these related disorders is crucial for effective management.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Hematology
  • Rare Diseases

Background:

  • Microcytic anemia in toddlers can indicate serious underlying conditions.
  • Limp and refusal to walk in young children warrant thorough investigation.
  • Vomiting can be a non-specific symptom in pediatric emergencies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight two rare, related diagnoses presenting as microcytic anemia and mobility issues in a toddler.
  • To emphasize the importance of early identification of these treatable conditions.
  • To inform emergency department clinicians about potential missed diagnoses.

Main Methods:

  • Case report of a 22-month-old male.
  • Clinical presentation analysis including profound microcytic anemia, limp, refusal to walk, and vomiting.
  • Diagnostic workup based on dietary history and focused examination.

Main Results:

  • Identification of two rare and related diagnoses.
  • These diagnoses were potentially easily missed in an emergency setting.
  • The identified conditions are treatable with prompt intervention.

Conclusions:

  • Early recognition of specific clinical signs is vital for diagnosing rare pediatric conditions.
  • Prompt diagnosis and treatment of these related disorders can lead to favorable outcomes.
  • Awareness of these rare diagnoses can improve pediatric emergency care.

Keywords:
Emergiquizanemialimp

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