Parenteral iron therapy in children with iron deficiency anemia

Abstract

Objective – The aim of the study was to determine the efficacy and safety of intravenous iron preparations in a group of children with iron deficiency anemia who did not respond to oral iron supplementation.

Materials and methods – We conducted a retrospective study on children who received intravenous iron sucrose and iron gluconate at University Children’s Hospital Rijeka between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2011. The response to therapy was determined by the difference in the hemoglobin values prior to parenteral treatment and after two months.

Results – A total of 76 intravenous iron infusions were administered to twelve children. Patients had a good response to parenteral iron therapy, with a median hemoglobin rise of 2.7 g/dl within two months. There was only one mild adverse reaction.

Conclusion – Parenteral iron therapy should be considered in a group of children with iron deficiency anemia who fail to respond to oral iron preparations due to malabsorption, intolerance or poor compliance. The possible occurrence of severe adverse reactions emphasizes the need for close medical observation.