Anemia in children

Anemia is one of the common hematological syndromes in children. It is characterized by a decrease in red blood cell production, an increase in red blood cell loss, or premature destruction of red blood cells due to nutritional deficiencies, trauma, or disease. This results in a reduction in the number of red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb) levels, or hematocrit (Hct) values per unit volume of blood below normal, or a significant decrease in one of these parameters. Symptoms typically include pallor of the skin (e.g., face, earlobes, palms), mucous membranes (e.g., conjunctiva, oral mucosa), and nail beds. In children with a prolonged course of the disease, symptoms may include fatigue, dry hair, malnutrition, and growth retardation. Anemia can also be a predisposing factor for certain infectious diseases.