Temporal clustering of transient erythroblastopenia (cytopenia) of childhood.

A temporal cluster of four cases of transient childhood erythroblastopenia is described. In all cases there was an associated transient neutropenia and in one case a transient mild thrombocytopenia. In all cases reticulo-endothelial iron overload was a prominent feature but there was no evidence of a pre-existing chronic haemolytic state. All children made a full recovery with only supportive treatment, although in three cases blood transfusion was necessary.