Title: Anemia and Red Cell Distribution Width at the 12-Month Well-Baby Examination
Abstract: Screens for anemia are among the most commonly done laboratory tests in children. The red cell distribution width (RDW) has been proposed as a diagnostic aid in the evaluation of pediatric anemias, but no prospective studies have been published describing its use.A screening hematocrit determination done at the 12-month well-baby examination in 970 healthy infants yielded 62 low values (< 33%), 31 of which were confirmed by heel stick complete blood count (CBC). After a 1-month trial of iron therapy, those with a rise in hemoglobin of at least 1 g/dL were considered to have iron-deficiency anemia. Nonresponders, after review of clinical and laboratory data (CBC, lead screen, and sickle screen), had hemoglobin electrophoresis if indicated.Abnormalities detected were iron deficiency, alpha-thalassemia, and hemoglobins SC and AS. These conditions were detected in 9 of 11 infants with abnormal RDW and none of 9 with normal RDW.The RDW alone appears to be predictive of identifiable causes of anemia when used in screening 12-month-old babies who are otherwise healthy.
Publication Year: 1998
Publication Date: 1998-04-01
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['crossref', 'pubmed']
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Cited By Count: 16
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