Hemorheological parameters in children with iron-deficiency anemia and the alterations in these parameters in response to iron replacement.

AIM

Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common disorder in pediatric patients. There are a limited number of studies having controversial results in investigating red blood cell (RBC) deformability and aggregation in adult IDA patients. The aim of this study is to determine the change of hemorheological parameters, including RBC deformability, aggregation, and plasma and whole blood viscosity, in children with IDA following iron supplementation therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was performed on 20 children with IDA (average age 35.5 +/- 6.5 months) and 20 age-matched healthy children. The anemia group was treated with 5 mg/kg/day peroral iron for 2 months. Hematological and hemorheological parameters were determined before and after treatment. An ectacytometer was used for the assessment of RBC deformability and aggregation and a cone-plate rotational viscometer for plasma and whole blood viscosities. Hematological parameters were determined using an electronic hematology analyzer.

RESULTS

Although IDA resulted in a decrement in RBC deformability, aggregation, plasma, and whole blood viscosities, these parameters returned to control values after iron supplementation therapy. Serum ferritin levels and hematological parameters (Hb, MCV, MCH, MCHC) that were lower in IDA patients were also found to be increased after treatment.

CONCLUSION

Iron treatment not only reverses the symptoms of anemia but also may contribute to blood flow regulation by causing increments in the alterations observed in hemorheological parameters during anemia.