[Transient erythroblastopenia in children; a harmless form of anemia]

In three children presenting with anaemia, transient erythroblastopenia of childhood (TEC) was diagnosed. This is a harmless disorder in which erythropoiesis is temporarily suppressed by some unknown cause. TEC mostly affects young children between the age of 1 and 4 years. Apart from the anaemia symptoms are rare. Children with TEC recover spontaneously but sometimes one or more packed red cell transfusions may be necessary. It is easy to distinguish TEC from other causes of anaemia by history, physical examination and limited blood testing. Awareness of the existence of TEC can prevent unnecessary diagnostic procedures and treatment.