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Iron Deficiency Anemia in Infancy

The most common nutritional cause of anemia during infancy.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Iron Deficiency Anemia in Infancy?

Infant iron deficiency anemia develops due to inadequate dietary intake, iron stores, or absorption against the increased iron requirement of the rapidly growing brain and body. Early introduction of cow's milk continues to be an important cause.

Premature, low-birth-weight, and twin babies are already born with insufficient iron stores. Even with breastfeeding, failure to start iron-rich complementary foods after the 6th month facilitates anemia.

Clinical signs include pallor, loss of appetite, pica, distractibility, developmental delay, and recurrent infections. Neurodevelopmental effects can be irreversible, so prophylaxis and early treatment are critical.

Symptoms

Pallor (conjunctiva, palms)
Loss of appetite
Pica (eating soil, ice)
Weakness and easy fatigability
Distractibility
Recurrent infections

Risk Factors

Prematurity and low birth weight
Maternal anemia
Early cow's milk feeding
Iron-poor complementary foods
Prolonged formula/milk-based feeding
Gastrointestinal losses

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Pallor and loss of appetite in an infant
  • When growth and developmental delay is detected
  • At the 9-12 month screening period
  • When pica behavior is seen
  • Routine follow-up of preterm infants

Treatment Methods

01
Complete blood count, serum ferritin, and iron saturation
02
Oral elemental iron 3-6 mg/kg/day
03
Guidance to iron-rich complementary foods
04
Co-administration with vitamin C
05
Limit cow's milk amount
06
Follow-up with Hb and ferritin to determine treatment duration

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.