Plummer-vinson syndrome associated with lower esophageal ring (Schatzki's Ring)

We report a case of Plummer-Vinson syndrome (PVS) and lower esophageal ring with a small sliding hiatal hernia. PVS is a rare entity formed by the combination of dysphagia, cervical esophageal web and iron deficiency anemia. It occurs mainly in middle-aged women1,2,3. A lower esophageal ring and a small sliding hiatal hernia were also observed in this case. We documented clinical manifestations of iron deficiency anemia through images and esophageal abnormalities through barium esophagogram. (AU)

Identificación de &-talasemia en anemias microcíticas hipocrómicas refractarias al tratamiento con hierro en Nicaragua / Identification of &-thalassemia in hypochromic microcytic anemias refractory to iron treatment in Nicaragua

Resumen Justificación y objetivo: gran parte de los casos descritos de anemias microcíticas-hipocrómicas corresponden a anemias ferropénicas y síndromes talasémicos. El diagnóstico diferencial se complementa con pruebas de laboratorio como el hierro sérico, ferritina, entre otras; sin embargo, estas son de baja disponibilidad en países en vías de desarrollo. En Nicaragua, el diagnóstico de estas patologías se basa en el historial clínico y análisis hematológicos de rutina. El objetivo de este trabajo fue la implementación de la técnica de cuantificación de hemoglobina A2 en el diagnóstico clínico de β-talasemia. Métodos: se realizó un estudio transversal con 30 pacientes que mostraban microcitosis e hipocromía después de 3 meses de tratamiento con sales de hierro. Se realizó electroforesis de hemoglobina y se utilizó el kit de la casa comercial Beta-Thal HbA2 Quik Column para cuantificar la hemoglobina A2 en cada paciente. El análisis estadístico utilizado fue la prueba de t de student. Se consideraron significativas las diferencias a p<0,05. Esta investigación respetó los principios éticos que conciernen. Se contó con la aprobación del Comité de Ética Institucional, UNAN-Managua. Los participantes dieron su consentimiento informado. Resultados: al aplicar el método para cuantificación de hemoglobina A2, se obtuvo que el 67 % de las muestras presentaron una concentración de hemoglobina A2 mayor al valor de referencia establecido (3,3 %), siendo pacientes diagnosticados para β-talasemia menor. El 33 % restante presentó valores normales de hemoglobina A2 con microcitosis e hipocromía. Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las medias de glóbulos rojos, volumen corpuscular medio, hemoglobina corpuscular media y hemoglobina A2, entre ambos grupos. Conclusión: el diagnóstico diferencial de anemias microcíticas hipocrómicas refractarias al tratamiento con hierro, se realiza inicialmente por el historial clínico del paciente, pero es necesario contar con pruebas diagnósticas como la cuantificación de hemoglobina A2 que permitan identificar las diversas patologías que cursan con microcitosis e hipocromía.

Abstract Justification and objective: much of the described cases of microcytic-hypochromic anemias are ferropenic anemias and Thalassemia syndromes. The differential diagnosis is complemented by laboratory tests as serum iron, ferritin, among others; However, these are of low availability in developing countries. In Nicaragua, the diagnosis of these diseases is based on clinical history and routine blood analysis. The objective of this work was to implement a technique for quantification of hemoglobin A2 in the clinical diagnosis of β-Thalassemia. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study with 30 patients showing hypochromia and microcytosis after 3 months of treatment with iron salts. Hemoglobin electrophoresis was performed, a kit from Beta-Thal HbA2 Quik Column was used to quantify the hemoglobin A2 in each patient. The statistical analysis used was the student's t test. The differences were considered significant at p < 0.05. This research respected ethical principles that concern. It had the approval of the committee of ethics institutional, UNAN-Managua and the participants gave their informed consent. Results: when applying the method for quantification of hemoglobin A2, 67% of samples presented a concentration of hemoglobin A2 greater than the reference value set at 3.3%, these patients were diagnosed with β-Thalassemia minor. The remaining 33% presented normal values of hemoglobin A2 with hypochromia and microcytosis. Statistically significant differences between the averages of red blood cells, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and hemoglobin A2 between the two groups was observed. Conclusion: The differential diagnosis of microcytic hypochromic anemias refractory to treatment with iron, is initially performed by the clinical history of the patient, but it is necessary to have diagnostic tests such as the quantification of hemoglobin A2, which allow the identification of patients with β-Thalassemia minor within this group. In our study 67% of the studied samples were identified as β-Thalassemia minor.

Contribuição do desmame precoce na ocorrência da anemia ferropriva em lactentes / Contribution of early weaning in the occurrence of iron-deficiency anemia in infants

Introdução: A anemia ferropriva é considerada uma das carências nutricionais mais frequentes e um grande problema para a Saúde Pública mundial, sendo as mulheres e as crianças menores de dois anos de vida os grupos mais suscetíveis. O Ministério da Saúde preconiza o aleitamento materno exclusivo até os seis meses de vida e como complemento, até no mínimo os 24 meses. Aos seis meses, deve-se iniciar a introdução alimentar como complemento ao aleitamento materno, para suprir as necessidades de energia e de nutrientes essenciais para um crescimento adequado. Objetivo: Avaliar se há uma associação entre o desmame precoce e a prevalência de anemia ferropriva em lactentes. Casuística e métodos:Estudo quantitativo, com delineamento transversal, realizado entre outubro de 2016 e fevereiro de 2017, com 31 crianças de zero a 23 meses de idade, acompanhadas na Unidade Básica de Saúde Centro, do município de Gravataí, localizado ao sul do Brasil. Foi realizada a aplicação de um questionário com perguntas relacionadas à amamentação e foram coletados dados de níveis de hemoglobina dos prontuários dos participantes da pesquisa. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e calculada a razão de prevalência, sendo considerados estatisticamente significativos valores de p<0,05. Resultados: Foi observada uma tendência linear entre anemia ferropriva e idade das crianças (p= 0,004), porém a relação entre o desmame precoce e a anemia ferropriva não apresentou associação estatisticamente significativa. No entanto pode haver uma tendência futura de maior prevalência de anemia ferropriva nas crianças que desmamaram precocemente tanto aos quatro, quanto aos seis meses. Conclusão: Na amostra estudada de lactentes, com até 23 meses de idade, o desmame precoce não foi associado com a prevalência de anemia ferropriva. A introdução alimentar precoce e a não realização do aleitamento materno exclusivo podem contribuir para a maior ocorrência de anemia ferropriva em lactentes na faixa etária de zero a seis meses de vida.

Introduction:The iron-deficiency anemia due to iron-deficiency is considered one of the most frequent nutritional deficiencies and a major problem for world public health, where women and children under two years of age are the main group susceptible to its occurrence. The Brazilian Ministry of Health recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to six months of life and after, as a complement, until at least 24 months of age. Feeding should be initiated as a complement to breastfeeding at six months' age, in order to provision energy and other nutrient essential needs for adequate growth. Objective: to evaluate if early weaning is associated with iron-deficiency anemia in infants. Material and methods: A quantitative study with a cross-sectional design was carried out with 31 children from zero to 23 months of age, duly followed up at the Basic Health Center of the city of Gravataí. A questionnaire was applied with questions related to breastfeeding, and hemoglobin levels data were collected from the study participants' charts. Descriptive analyses were performed and the prevalence ratio was calculated, considering p ≤ 0.05 as significant. Results: A linear trend was observed between iron deficiency anemia and age (p = 0.004), but the relationship between early weaning and iron deficiency anemia did not present a statistically significant association. However, there may be a future trend towards a higher prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in children who weaned early at both four and six months. Conclusion: In the studied sample of infants, up to 23 months of age, early weaning was not associated with the prevalence of iron-deficiency anemia. Early feeding and failure to deliver exclusive breastfeeding may contribute to the increased occurrence of iron-deficiency anemia in infants between 0-6 months of age.

Potencial associação da doença celíaca com anemia ferropriva refratária em crianças e adolescentes / Association of potential celiac disease and refractory iron deficiency anemia in children and adolescents

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Celiac disease is an enteropathy caused by dietary gluten. The combination of serologic, genetic and histologic data has led to description of other categories of this disease. OBJECTIVE: There are a number of patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) that do not respond to iron treatment and may be repeated for many times, Therefore, we aimed to investigate celiac disease in this group. METHODS: In this cross sectional transverse prospective study from August 2011 to February 2013, in a Pediatric care clinic affiliated to Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, 184 children including 92 IDA patients who responded to treatment using iron supplement, 45 non-responding iron deficient patients, and 47 healthy individuals, with the maximum age of 18 years, with written consent from their parents, participated in serologic screening (with Anti-TTG antibody and anti-Endomysial antibody) for celiac disease. Patients with at least one positive serology test underwent multiple mucosal biopsy from bulb and duodenum. RESULTS: Among 184 participants, 19 (10.3%) subjects had positive serologic test for celiac disease, including 13 (28.9%) patients in the group with refractory IDA, 5 (5.4%) patients in the group with treated IDA, and 1 patient in the healthy group. The frequency of positive serologic test in the group with IDA resistant to treatment was prominently higher than the other two groups (P<0.001). Among the patients with positive serologic celiac test who underwent endoscopy and biopsy, no histologic evidence of celiac disease was seen. They were diagnosed as potential celiac disease. CONCLUSION: Frequency of potential celiac disease in patients with refractory IDA was higher than control the subjects. Therefore, we recommend serologic screening for early detection and minimizing the complications of celiac disease and repeated iron therapy for this group.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: A doença celíaca é uma enteropatia causada pelo glúten na dieta. A combinação de dados sorológicos, genéticos e histológicos proporcionou a descrição de outras categorias desta doença. OBJETIVO: Há pacientes com anemia por deficiência de ferro que não respondem ao tratamento com ferro mesmo que repetido por muitas vezes. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar a presença de doença celíaca nestes indivíduos. MÉTODOS: Realizado estudo prospectivo com cruzamento secional transversal, de agosto de 2011 a fevereiro de 2013, em uma clínica de cuidados pediátricos afiliados a Shiraz University Medical Sciences, com 184 crianças incluindo 92 pacientes com anemia por deficiência de ferro que responderam ao tratamento com ferro suplementar, 45 não respondedores e 47 indivíduos sadios, com idade máxima de 18 anos, todos com consentimento informado dos pais. Todos participaram da triagem sorológica (com anticorpos anti-TTG e anticorpo antiendomísio) para doença celíaca. Pacientes com pelo menos um teste de sorologia positiva foram submetidos a biópsia da mucosa múltipla do bulbo e duodeno. RESULTADOS: Entre os 184 participantes, 19 (10,3%) tinham teste sorológico positivo para doença celíaca, incluindo 13 (28,9%) pacientes no grupo com a anemia por deficiência de ferro refratária, 5 (5,4%) pacientes no grupo com anemia por deficiência de ferro tratados e respondedores e 1 paciente do grupo saudável. A frequência de teste sorológico positivo no grupo com anemia por deficiência de ferro resistente ao tratamento foi destacadamente maior do que os outros dois grupos (P<0,001). Entre os pacientes com teste sorológico positivo para doença celíaca submetidos a endoscopia e biópsia, não foi vista nenhuma evidência histológica de doença celíaca. Foram diagnosticados como potencial doença celíaca. CONCLUSÃO: Potencial frequência de doença celíaca em pacientes com anemia por deficiência de ferro refratária foi maior do que nos controles. Portanto, recomendamos testes sorológicos de triagem para a detecção precoce, minimizando as complicações da terapia de ferro repetidas para este grupo.

Severe iron-deficiency anemia as initial manifestation of pulmonary hemosiderosis in a child / Anemia ferropriva grave como manifestaçao inicial de hemossiderose pulmonar em criança

ABSTRACT Idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis is a potentially fatal disease that results from episodes of alveolar hemorrhage of unknown origin. The clinical spectrum is varied, and anemia may constitute the only manifestation of illness, preceding other signs and symptoms by several months. We present the case of a 4 year-old child presenting with fever, vomiting and prostration, associated with pallor. He had microcytic and hypochromic anemia refractory to iron therapy. Gastrointestinal bleeding was ruled out after negative extensive etiological investigation. Subsequently, pulmonary infiltrates suggestive of alveolar hemorrhage were observed in the chest radiography. The cytological exam of the bronchoalveolar lavage showed hemosiderin-laden macrophages. After the etiological study, the diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary hemosiderosis was made by exclusion. He was initiated on corticosteroid therapy, later associated to an immunosuppressive agent, with subsequent correction of anemia and of the radiological pattern. The patient is currently asymptomatic.

RESUMO A hemossiderose pulmonar idiopática é uma doença potencialmente fatal que cursa com episódios de hemorragia alveolar de etiologia desconhecida. As manifestações clínicas são variadas, e a anemia pode constituir o único sinal de doença, precedendo em vários meses os outros sinais e sintomas. Apresenta-se o caso de criança de 4 anos, com febre, vômitos e prostração, associados à palidez. Apresentava anemia microcítica e hipocrômica, refratária à terapêutica com ferro. A hipótese diagnóstica de sangramento gastrintestinal foi excluída, após investigação etiológica extensa, inconclusiva. Posteriormente, em radiografia torácica, foram observados infiltrados sugestivos de hemorragia alveolar. O exame citológico do lavado broncoalveolar mostrou macrófagos com depósitos de hemossiderina. Após estudo etiológico, assumiu-se, por exclusão, o diagnóstico de hemossiderose pulmonar idiopática. Foi iniciada terapêutica com corticoides, associada posteriormente a imunossupressor, com correção subsequente da anemia e do padrão radiológico, encontrando-se, atualmente, assintomático.

¿Puede usarse el receptor soluble de transferrina para diagnosticar anemia ferropénica y evaluar la respuesta al hierro en lactantes con desnutrición aguda moderada? / Can soluble transferrin receptor be used in diagnosing iron deficiency anemia and assessing iron response in infants with moderate acute malnutrition?

Objetivo. Evaluar la eficacia del receptor soluble de transferrina (RST) en el diagnóstico de la anemia ferropénica (AF) y en la evaluación de la respuesta al hierro en los lactantes con desnutrición aguda moderada (DAM). Población y métodos. Se reclutó a lactantes con valores de hemoglobina (Hb) inferiores a los valores umbrales de anemia para su edad y con anemia hipocrómica/microcítica observada en el frotis de sangre periférica. La DAM se definió como un puntaje Z de peso/estatura de entre < -2 y -3. Se compararon los valores del hemograma, los parámetros férricos y el RST entre 41 lactantes con DAM y anemia (grupo DA), 32 lactantes con anemia sin DAM (grupo A) y controles saludables (n= 30). Una vez completado el tratamiento de la anemia y la desnutrición, se repitieron las evaluaciones. Resultados. Además de los índices hematológicos compatibles con AF, los valores de hierro sérico (Fe) y saturación de transferrina (ST) eran significativamente menores, mientras que el valor de transferrina era significativamente mayor en los grupos DA y A en comparación con los controles (p < 0,001). Los valores de ferritina y proteína C-reactiva (PCR) eran significativamente más elevados en el grupo DA (p < 0,05 para la ferritina, p < 0,01 para la PCR). El valor medio del RST fue similar en ambos grupos (DA y A) (p > 0,05) y significativamente mayor que en los controles (p < 0,001). Después del tratamiento con hierro, el RST disminuyó en los grupos DA y A (p < 0,001) a valores similares a los observados en los controles. El RST se correlacionó negativamente con la Hb durante todo el estudio (grupo DA: r= -0,350, p < 0,05; grupo A: r= -0,683, p < 0,01). Conclusiones. Dado que los valores del RST en los grupos DA y A disminuyeron después del tratamiento con hierro, consideramos que este parámetro no estuvo afectado por la DAM ni la inflamación y puede usarse, por sí solo, para detectar la AF y supervisar la respuesta al tratamiento en los lactantes con DAM.

Objective. To evaluate the efficacy of soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) in diagnosing iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and evaluating iron response in infants with moderate acute malnutrition (MAM). Population and methods. Infants withhemoglobin (Hb) levels lower than threshold values for anemia for their ages and hypochromic/ microcytic anemia on peripheral smear were recruited. MAM was defined as weight/height z score < -2 to -3. Complete blood count (CBC), iron parameters and sTfR were compared among 41 infants with MAM and anemia (MA group), 32 infants with anemia without MAM (group A), and healthy controls (n= 30). Following anemia and malnutrition treatment, tests were repeated. Results. Besides hematological indices compatible with IDA, serum iron (Fe) and transferrin saturation (TS) were significantly lower, while transferrin was significantly higher in MA and A groups compared to controls (p <0.001). Ferritin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were significantly higher in MA group (p <0.05 ferritin, p <0.01 for CRP). Mean sTfR was similar in both MA and A groups (p >0.05) and significantly higher than controls (p <0.001). Following iron treatment, sTfR decreased inboth MA and A groups (p <0.001) to similar values as controls. sTfR was negatively correlated to Hb throughout the study (for MA group, r= -0.350, p <0.05; for A group, r= -0.683, p <0.01). Conclusions. As sTfR values in both MA and A groups decreased following iron treatment, we believe that this parameter was not influenced by MAM or inflammation; and it alone can be used to detect IDA and monitor treatment response in infants with MAM.

Prevalence and Relationships of Iron Deficiency Anemia with Blood Cadmium and Vitamin D Levels in Korean Women

Anemia, iron deficiency (ID), and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are common disorders. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of anemia, ID, and IDA in Korean females. We examined the associations between IDA, heavy metals in blood, vitamin D level and nutritional intakes. The study was performed using on data collected from 10,169 women (aged > or =10 yr), including 1,232 with anemia, 2,030 with ID, and 690 with IDA during the fifth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES V; 2010-2012). Prevalence and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and path analysis was performed to identify a multivariate regression model incorporating IDA, heavy metals in blood, vitamin D level, and nutritional intakes. The overall prevalence of anemia, ID and IDA was 12.4%, 23.11%, and 7.7%, respectively. ID and IDA were more prevalent among adolescents (aged 15-18 yr; 36.5% for ID; 10.7% for IDA) and women aged 19-49 yr (32.7% for ID; 11.3% for IDA). The proposed path model showed that IDA was associated with an elevated cadmium level after adjusting for age and body mass index (beta=0.46, P<0.001). Vitamin D levels were found to affect IDA negatively (beta=-0.002, P<0.001). This study shows that the prevalence of anemia, ID, and IDA are relatively high in late adolescents and women of reproductive age. Path analysis showed that depressed vitamin D levels increase the risk of IDA, and that IDA increases cadmium concentrations in blood. Our findings indicate that systematic health surveillance systems including educational campaigns and well-balanced nutrition are needed to control anemia, ID, and IDA.

Anemia and iron deficiency in Mexican elderly population: Results from the Ensanut 2012 / Anemia y deficiencia de hierro en adultos mayores mexicanos: Resultados de la Ensanut 2012

Objective. To describe de prevalence of iron deficiency (ID) and anemia in a sample of Mexican elderly population from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (Ensanut) 2012. Materials and methods. 1 920 subjects ≥60 years of age were included. Hemoglobin, serum concentrations of ferritin and CRP were measured. The risk for ID and anemia adjusted for potential confounders was assessed in logistic regression models. Results. The overall prevalence of anemia was 13.9%, 15.2% in males and 12.8% females. For ID, overall it was 4.2%, males 4.0% and females 4.3%. The greatest prevalence of ID was found in males and females over 80 years old (6.9 and 7.0%, respectively). ID was present in 1.5 of 10 Mexican elders with anemia. Conclusion. The prevalence of anemia was high in the elderly, however the prevalence of ID was low; there is a need to further investigate the causes of anemia in this age group.

Objetivo. Describir la prevalencia de deficiencia de hierro (DH) y anemia en adultos mayores (AM) mexicanos participantes de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición 2012. Material y métodos. 1 920 sujetos ≥60 años fueron incluidos. Se midió hemoglobina, concentraciones séricas de ferritina y PCR. El riesgo de DH y anemia ajustada por confusores fueron evaluados por medio de modelos de regresión logística. Resultados. La prevalencia de anemia fue 13.9% (15.2% hombres, 12.8% mujeres) y de DH 4.2%, (4.0% hombres, 4.3% mujeres). La mayor prevalencia de ID se encontró en mayores de 80 años (6.9% hombres, 7.0% mujeres). 1.5 de 10 adultos mayores mexicanos con anemia presentaron DH. Conclusión. La prevalencia de anemia continua siendo alta en los adultos mayores, mientras que la prevalencia de DH es baja. Es necesario investigar las causas de anemia en este grupo de edad.

Anemia y deficiencia de hierro en mujeres en edad reproductiva usuarias del Hospital Regional de Villa Hayes, Paraguay / Anemia and iron deficiency in reproductive age womenattending the Regional Hospital of Villa Hayes, Paraguay

La anemia es un problema de salud pública a nivel mundial. En Paraguay, existen datos limitados sobre la frecuencia de anemia en mujeres en edad reproductiva no gestantes. Este estudio piloto descriptivo de corte transverso tuvo como objetivo determinar la frecuencia de anemia y deficiencia de hierro, el estado nutricional, hábitos alimentarios y tóxicos en 99 mujeres no gestantes en edad reproductiva de 18 a 48 años que acudieron al Hospital Regional de Villa Hayes en Octubre del 2.014. La anemia se determinó tomando como punto de corte una concentración de hemoglobina <12 g/dL. La deficiencia de hierro se evaluó según la saturación de la transferrina. Además, se evaluó el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y los hábitos nutricionales a través de una encuesta. La frecuencia de anemia fue de 15,1% (IC95% 8,7-23,8%), de éste el 33,3% (IC95% 12,8-61,6%) correspondió a anemia ferropénica. Se observó asociación entre la presencia de anemia y los niveles disminuidos tanto del hematocrito (<38%) como del número de glóbulos rojos (<4,2x 106/uL). Todas las mujeres con anemia ferropénica tenían peso <64 kg e IMC <24,5 kg/m2. Además, se detectó una alta frecuencia de sobrepeso y obesidad (45,4%), alto consumo de grasas, y bajo consumo de legumbres, frutas y verduras. A partir de estos resultados, se sugiere mantener la vigilancia e implementar programas que incluyan a estas mujeres, tanto para evitar deficiencias nutricionales como excesos.

Anemia is a public health problem all around the world. In Paraguay, there are limiteddata on the prevalence of anemia in non-pregnant women of reproductive age. This pilotdescriptive cross-sectional study had as objective to determine the frequency of anemiaand iron deficiency, nutritional status, dietary and toxic habits in 99 non-pregnant womenof reproductive age of 18-48 years attending the Regional Hospital of Villa Hayes inOctober 2014. The anemia was established on the cutoff hemoglobin concentration of<12 g/dL. Iron deficiency was evaluated according to the transferrin saturation. Besides,the body mass index (BMI) and dietary habits were evaluated using a survey. The frequencyof anemia was 15.1% (CI95% 8.7-23.8%), of this 33.3% (CI95% 12.8-61.6%) wasiron-deficiency anemia. There was association between the cases of anemia and the decreasedlevels of hematocrit (<38%) and red blood cell count (<4.2 106 / uL). All womenwith iron deficiency anemia had a weight <64 kg and a BMI <24.5 kg /m2. In addition, a high frequency of overweight and obesity (45.4%), high consumption of fat, andlow consumption legumbres, fruits and vegetables were detected. From these results, itis suggested that it is important to maintain surveillance and implement programs includingthese women, both to avoid nutritional deficiencies and excesses.

Iron deficiency and anemia are associated with low retinol levels in children aged 1 to 5 years / Deficiência de ferro e anemia estão associadas com baixos níveis de retinol em crianças de 1 a 5 anos

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the occurrence of anemia and iron deficiency in children aged 1 to 5 years and the association of these events and retinol deficiency. METHODS: This was an observational analytic cross-sectional study conducted in Vitoria, ES, Brazil, between April and August of 2008, with healthy children aged 1 to 5 years (n = 692) that lived in areas covered by primary healthcare services. Sociodemographic and economic conditions, dietary intake (energy, protein, iron, and vitamin A ingestion), anthropometric data (body mass index-for-age and height-for-age), and biochemical parameters (ferritin, hemoglobin, and retinol serum) were collected. RESULTS: The prevalence of anemia, iron deficiency, and retinol deficiency was 15.7%, 28.1%, and 24.7%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed a higher prevalence of anemia (PR: 4.62, 95% CI: 3.36, 6.34, p < 0.001) and iron deficiency (PR: 4.51, 95% CI: 3.30, 6.17, p < 0.001) among children with retinol deficiency. The same results were obtained after adjusting for socioeconomic and demographic conditions, dietary intake, and anthropometric variables. There was a positive association between ferritin vs. retinol serum (r = 0.597; p < 0.001) and hemoglobin vs. retinol serum (r = 0.770; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Anemia and iron deficiency were associated with low levels of serum retinol in children aged 1 to 5 years, and a positive correlation was verified between serum retinol and serum ferritin and hemoglobin levels. These results indicate the importance of initiatives encouraging the development of new treatments and further research regarding retinol deficiency. .

OBJETIVO: Analisar a ocorrência de anemia e de deficiência de ferro em crianças de 1 a 5 anos e a associação destes desfechos com a deficiência de retinol. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo observacional analítico do tipo transversal, realizado no município de Vitória - ES, entre abril e agosto de 2008, com crianças (n = 692) saudáveis de 1 a 5 anos, residentes em áreas de abrangência de Unidades Básicas de Saúde. Foram avaliados dados sociodemográficos, econômicos, dietéticos (ingestão de energia, proteína, ferro e vitamina A), antropométricos (índice de massa corporal-por-idade e estatura-por-idade) e bioquímicos (níveis séricos de ferritina, hemoglobina e retinol). RESULTADOS: Detectou-se anemia, deficiência de ferro e deficiência de retinol em 15,7%, 28,1% e 24,7% das crianças, respectivamente. A análise univariada evidenciou maior ocorrência de anemia (RP: 4,62; IC 95%: 3,36; 6,34, p < 0.001) e de deficiência de ferro (RP: 4,51; IC 95%: 3,30; 6,17, p < 0.001) entre crianças que apresentavam deficiência de retinol. As mesmas relações se mantiveram após o ajuste pelas variáveis socioeconômicas, demográficas, dietéticas e antropométricas. Houve relação positiva entre os valores de ferritina sérica vs. retinol (r = 0,597; p < 0,001) e hemoglobina vs. retinol (r = 0,770; p < 0,001). CONCLUSÕES: A anemia e a deficiência de ferro mostraram-se associadas com baixos níveis de retinol em crianças de 1 a 5 anos, e houve correlação positiva dos níveis de retinol com os de ferritina sérica e hemoglobina. Isto torna importante iniciativas que estimulem o desenvolvimento de novos tratamentos e a ampliação de pesquisas em relação à deficiência ...

Anemia in inflammatory bowel disease: prevalence, differential diagnosis and association with clinical and laboratory variables / Anemia na doença inflamatória intestinal: prevalência, diagnóstico diferencial e associação com variáveis clínicas e laboratoriais

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVES: Anemia is the most frequent extraintestinal complication of inflammatory bowel disease. This study aimed to: 1) determine the prevalence of anemia among patients with inflammatory bowel disease; 2) investigate whether routine laboratory markers are useful for diagnosing anemia; and 3) evaluate whether any association exists between anemia and clinical/laboratory variables. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional at a federal university. METHODS: 44 outpatients with Crohn's disease and 55 with ulcerative colitis were evaluated. Clinical variables (disease activity index, location of disease and pharmacological treatment) and laboratory variables (blood count, iron laboratory, vitamin B12 and folic acid) were investigated. RESULTS: Anemia and/or iron laboratory disorders were present in 75% of the patients with Crohn's disease and in 78.2% with ulcerative colitis. Anemia was observed in 20.5% of the patients with Crohn's disease and in 23.6% with ulcerative colitis. Iron-deficiency anemia was highly prevalent in patients with Crohn's disease (69.6%) and ulcerative colitis (76.7%). Anemia of chronic disease in combination with iron deficiency anemia was present in 3% of the patients with Crohn's disease and in 7% of the patients with ulcerative colitis. There was no association between anemia and disease location. In ulcerative colitis, anemia was associated with the disease activity index. CONCLUSIONS: Most patients present iron laboratory disorders, with or without anemia, mainly due to iron deficiency. The differential diagnosis between the two most prevalent types of anemia was made based on clinical data and routine laboratory tests. In ulcerative colitis, anemia was associated with the disease activity index. .

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVOS: Anemia é a mais frequente complicação extraintestinal na doença inflamatória intestinal. Este estudo objetivou: 1) determinar a prevalência de anemia em portadores de doença inflamatória intestinal; 2) investigar se os marcadores laboratoriais de uso rotineiro são úteis para o diagnóstico da anemia; 3) avaliar se existe associação entre anemia e variáveis clínico-laboratoriais. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal em uma universidade federal. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 44 pacientes ambulatoriais com doença de Crohn e 55 com retocolite ulcerativa. Foram investigados aspectos clínicos (índice de atividade da doença, localização da doença e tratamento farmacológico) e laboratoriais (hemograma, ferrocinética, vitamina B12 e ácido fólico). RESULTADOS: Anemia e/ou anormalidades na ferrocinética estavam presentes em 75% dos pacientes com doença de Crohn e em 78,2% dos pacientes com retocolite. Anemia foi observada em 20,5% do grupo com doença de Crohn e em 23,6% do grupo com retocolite. Anemia por deficiência de ferro predominou entre os pacientes com doença de Crohn (69,6%) e com retocolite (76,7%). Anemia de doença crônica associada à anemia ferropriva estava presente em 3% dos pacientes com doença de Crohn e em 7% daqueles com retocolite. Na retocolite, a anemia estava associada com o índice de atividade da doença. CONCLUSÕES: A maioria dos pacientes apresentava alterações na ferrocinética com ou sem anemia, principalmente decorrente da ferropenia. O diagnóstico diferencial entre os dois tipos mais prevalentes de anemia foi baseado nos dados clínicos e nos testes laboratoriais de rotina. Anemia estava associada com o índice de atividade na retocolite. .

Breastfeeding exclusively and iron deficiency anemia during the first 6 months of age / Aleitamento materno exclusivo e anemia ferropriva nos seis primeiros meses de vida.

Objective The objective was to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia among exclusively breastfed infants from one to six months of life and to identify associated risk factors. Methods This is a cohort study of the hemoglobin and serum ferritin levels of 102 healthy full-term infants, weighing more than 2500 grams (5.5 pounds) at birth, evaluated for growth development and supported to promote exclusive breastfeeding. Hemoglobin and ferritin levels were measured in the first, fourth, and sixth months of life. The hemoglobin and ferritin levels of the mothers were also measured in the first month postpartum. Results At four months, 5.7% presented iron deficiency and 3.4% had iron deficiency anemia. At six months, the percentage of children with iron deficiency increased more than four times, reaching 26.1%, while iron deficiency anemia was present in 23.9% of the infants studied. Iron deficiency at six months of age was significantly correlated to growth velocity. Conclusion According to the results of this study, exclusive breastfeeding protects infants from iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia for the first four months of life. After this age, in accordance with the literature, the findings of this study demonstrated an increase in anemia and iron deficiency rates, adding to evidence that supports the monitoring of iron levels in exclusively breastfed children presenting higher weight gains beginning at four months of age. .

Objetivo Determinar a prevalência da deficiência de ferro e anemia ferropriva em crianças, de um aos seis meses de vida, alimentadas exclusivamente ao seio materno e identificar os fatores de risco associados. Métodos Estudo de coorte dos valores de hemoglobina e ferritina sérica de 102 lactentes a termo, saudáveis, nascidos com peso maior que 2500 g, acompanhados quanto ao crescimento e desenvolvimento e com apoio à promoção do aleitamento materno exclusivo. Hemoglobina e ferritina sérica foram dosadas no primeiro, quarto e sexto mês de vida. Hemoglobina e ferritina sérica também foram dosadas nas mães no primeiro mês pós-parto. Resultados Aos quatro meses, 5,7% dos lactentes apresentaram deficiência de ferro e 3,4%, anemia ferropriva. Aos seis meses, o percentual de crianças com deficiência de ferro aumentou mais de quatro vezes, atingindo a proporção de 26,1%, enquanto a anemia ferropriva esteve presente em 23,9% dos lactentes da amostra. A deficiência de ferro aos seis meses foi associada significativamente com maior ganho ponderal. Conclusão Neste estudo, o aleitamento materno exclusivo protegeu as crianças da deficiência de ferro e da anemia ferropriva nos primeiros quatro meses de vida. Após essa idade, concordando com dados da literatura, esse estudou mostrou aumento na taxa de anemia e da deficiência de ferro, o que fornece mais uma evidência para apoiar a vigilância do estado do ferro, a partir dos quatro meses, para crianças em aleitamento materno exclusivo e que apresentem ganho de peso acima da média. .

Effect of anemia correction on left ventricular structure and filling pressure in anemic patients without overt heart disease

BACKGROUND/AIMS: There are few data on the effects of low hemoglobin levels on the left ventricle (LV) in patients without heart disease. The objective of this study was to document changes in the echocardiographic variables of LV structure and function after the correction of anemia without significant cardiovascular disease. METHODS: In total, 34 iron-deficiency anemia patients (35 +/- 11 years old, 32 females) without traditional cardiovascular risk factors or cardiovascular disease and 34 age- and gender-matched controls were studied. Assessments included history, physical examination, and echocardiography. Of the 34 patients with anemia enrolled, 20 were followed and underwent echocardiography after correction of the anemia. RESULTS: There were significant differences between the anemia and control groups in LV diameter, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), left atrial volume index (LAVI), peak mitral early diastolic (E) velocity, peak mitral late diastolic (A) velocity, E/A ratio, the ratio of mitral to mitral annular early diastolic velocity (E/E'), stroke volume, and cardiac index. Twenty patients underwent follow-up echocardiography after treatment of anemia. The follow-up results showed significant decreases in the LV end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters and LVMI, compared with baseline levels. LAVI, E velocity, and E/E' also decreased, suggesting a decrease in LV filling pressure. CONCLUSIONS: Low hemoglobin level was associated with larger cardiac chambers, increased LV, mass and higher LV filling pressure even in the subjects without cardiovascular risk factors or overt cardiovascular disease. Appropriate correction of anemia decreased LV mass, LA volume, and E/E'.

Anemia de las enfermedades crónicas asociada a obesidad: papel de la hepcidina como mediador central / Hepcidin as a central mediator of anemia of chronic diseases associated with obesity

Recent evidence suggests that obesity-related inflammation may play a central role in hepcidin regulation. Hepcidin is a key regulator ofiron homeostasis and has now been suggested as a central mediator ofiron metabolism disorders involved in the pathogenesis of anemia of chronic disease. In this review, we focus on subclinical inflammation in obesity and its effect on hepcidin levels, as the most plausible explanation for the relationship between anemia of chronic disease and obesity.

Níveis de hemoglobina e prevalência de anemia em gestantes atendidas em unidades básicas de saúde, antes e após a fortificação das farinhas com ferro / Hemoglobin levels and prevalence of anemia in pregnant women assisted in primary health care services, before and after fortification of flour / Hemoglobin levels and prevalence of anemia in pregnant women assisted in primary health care services, before and after fortification of flour*

Avaliaram-se níveis de hemoglobina-Hb e prevalência de anemia em gestantes, antes e após a fortificação das farinhas. Estudo de avaliação do tipo antes e depois, com amostras populacionais independentes, realizado em unidades básicas de saúde de Maringá, PR. Foram avaliados 366 prontuários de gestantes Antes da fortificação obrigatória das farinhas, e 419 Após a fortificação. Gestantes com Hb < 11g/dL foram consideradas anêmicas. Realizou-se análise de regressão linear múltipla. Verificou-se baixa prevalência de anemia que afetava 12,3% e 9,4% das gestantes, Antes e Após a fortificação (p > 0,05), porém o Grupo Após a fortificação obrigatória apresentou média de Hb mais elevada (p < 0,05). Evidenciou-se associação entre Hb e Grupo, idade gestacional, gestação anterior, ocupação e situação conjugal (p < 0,05). Embora a fortificação de farinhas possa ter um papel no aumento da média de hemoglobina, é preciso considerar a contribuição de outras variáveis não investigadas.

We evaluated hemoglobin-Hb levels and prevalence of anemia in pregnant women before and after fortification of flour. It was developed a study to evaluate intervention, of the type before and after, with independent population samples. Study was conducted in primary health care services in Maringá, PR. We assessed 366 and 419 medical records, Before and After implementation of fortification. Pregnant women with Hb < 11g/dL were considered anemic. Data were submitted to multiple linear regression analysis. There was low prevalence of anemia affecting 12.3% and 9.4% pregnant women Before and After fortification (p > 0.05), but the Group After the fortification had higher Hb levels (p < 0.05). Hb levels associated with Group, gestational age, previous pregnancy number, employment and marital status (p < 0.05). Although the fortification of flour may have had role in increasing the mean hemoglobin, we need consider the contribution of other variables not investigated.

El tratamiento del plan AUGE (GES) de la anemia en diálisis crónica no ha sido eficaz y, probablemente, no se han aprovechado los recursos económicos destinados para ello / Results of the explicit health guaranties program to correct anemia of end stage renal disease patients in dialysis

Background: In July 2010 end stage renal disease anemia correction was incorporated to the program of explicit health guaranties of the Ministry of Health. The treatment plan included intravenous iron and erythropoietin. The prescription of these medications carne from the deriving health organizations. Aim: To describe the results of that program in 11 dialysis facilities belonging to Fresenius Medical Care (a private organization) distributed in the six Metropolitan Health Services (MHS) in Santiago, Chile. Material and Methods: We selected 328 patients who remained in dialysis treatment at least between June 2010 and March 2011 and had a packed red cell volume lower than 30%, representing the target of the Plan. The evolution of packed red cell volume and the proportion of anemic patients in the facilities from each MHS were evaluated. Results: The two above mentioned variables began to improve only in December 2010. In no MHS, with the exception of the Eastern MHS, the mean hematocrit improved to higher than 30%, nor was the proportion of anemic patients reduced to lower than 50%o. Conclusions: Treatment of anemia of end stage renal disease in dialysis, implemented by the explicit health guaranties program of the Ministry of Health, was ineffective in almost all MHS in Santiago.

Relationship between blood donors' iron status and their age, body mass index and donation frequency / Relacao entre os niveis de ferro de doares de sangue e idade, indice de massa corporal e frequencia de doacao

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Regular blood donation may decrease body iron storage and lead to anemia. The aim here was to evaluate the iron status of Iranian male blood donors and the impact of age, body mass index (BMI) and donation frequency over one year, on iron status indices. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study at Tehran Blood Transfusion Center, Tehran, Iran. METHODS: Between July and September 2011, 117 male blood donors were selected and divided into four groups according to their frequency of blood donation. Thirty male non-donors were also recruited as controls after adjusting for age, weight, height, smoking habits and monthly income. Iron status indices and some criteria such as general health and dietary measurements were determined among all subjects. RESULTS: The values of the iron-related parameters were significantly lower among donors than among non-donors. Only total iron binding capacity (TIBC) was found to be significantly higher among different donor groups than in the controls. A significant positive correlation was observed between age and serum ferritin (SF) only among the donors who had donated once within the preceding year. The iron status indices did not show any significant relationship with BMI among donors or non-donors. CONCLUSION: A donation frequency of more than twice a year had a significant influence on iron-related parameters. Therefore, without annual measurement of these parameters, further phlebotomies may lead to iron deficiency and donor rejection in the future. .

CONTEXTO E OBJETIVO: Doação de sangue regular pode diminuir o armazenamento de ferro no organismo, conduzindo à anemia. O objetivo foi avaliar o estado de ferro de iranianos doadores de sangue do sexo masculino e o impacto da idade, índice de massa corporal (IMC) e frequência da doação ao longo de um ano sobre os índices do estado de ferro. TIPO DE ESTUDO E LOCAL: Estudo transversal, descritivo e analítico no Centro de Transfusão de Sangue de Teerã. MÉTODOS: Entre julho e setembro de 2011, foram selecionados 117 homens doadores de sangue, divididos em quatro grupos de acordo com a frequência de doação. Trinta homens não doadores foram também recrutados como controles, após ajustes para idade, peso, altura, tabagismo e renda mensal. Índices do estado de ferro, bem como alguns critérios como a saúde geral e medidas dietéticas, foram determinados entre todos os indivíduos. RESULTADOS: Os valores dos parâmetros relacionados ao ferro foram significativamente mais baixos entre os doadores em comparação aos não doadores. Somente capacidade de ligação de ferro total foi significativamente maior entre os diferentes grupos de doadores em comparação com os controles. Correlação positiva significante entre idade e ferretina sérica foi observada somente nos que tinham doado uma vez no ano anterior. Os índices do estado do ferro não mostraram relação significativa com o IMC entre doadores e não doadores. CONCLUSÃO: A frequência de doação de mais de duas vezes por ano teve influência significativa nos parâmetros relacionados ao ferro. Assim, sem medidas anuais desses parâmetros, flebotomias adicionais podem levar a deficiência de ferro e rejeição de doadores no futuro. .

Double-blind randomized controlled trial of rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron / Estudo duplo-cego randomizado controlado com pães fortificados com ferro microencapsulado

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of the fortification of rolls with microencapsulated iron sulfate with sodium alginate on the hemoglobin levels in preschoolers as compared to controls. METHODS: Double-blind randomized controlled trial comprised of children aged 2 to 6 years with initial hemoglobin exceeding 9 g/dL from four not-for-profit daycares randomly selected in the city of São Paulo - Brazil. Children of 2 daycares (n = 88) received rolls with fortified wheat flour as the exposed group (EC) and children of 2 daycares (n = 85) received rolls without fortification as the control group (CG) over a 24-week period. Rolls with 4 mg iron each were offered once a day, five days a week. Hemoglobin concentrations were determined in capillary blood by HemoCue® at three moments of trial: baseline (Ml), after 12 and 24 weeks of intervention (M2, M3). RESULTS: Hemoglobin concentration presented significant increase up to M3 in EG (11.7-12.5-12.6 g/dL) and in CG (11.1-12.4-12.3 g/dL) with higher elevations in children initially with anemia. There was significant reduction in the occurrence of anemia from 22 percent to 9 percent in EG and from 47 percent to 8.2 percent in CG at M3. CONCLUSION: Rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron sulfate were well tolerated, increased hemoglobin levels and reduced the occurrence of anemia, but with no difference compared to the control group.

OBJETIVO: A deficiência de ferro é a carência nutricional mais frequente no Brasil, tendo como principal etiologia a baixa ingestão do mineral. A fortificação alimentar é medida sustentável e de melhor custo-benefício para a prevenção e controle. O objetivo foi avaliar o impacto da fortificação de pães com sulfato ferroso microencapsulado com alginato de sódio sobre os níveis de hemoglobina em pré-escolares, comparados com controles. MÉTODOS: Estudo duplo-cego randomizado controlado incluindo crianças de 2 a 6 anos com hemoglobina inicial maior que 9 g/dL procedentes de 4 creches filantrópicas selecionadas aleatoriamente, São Paulo - Brasil. Crianças de 2 creches (n = 88) receberam pães com farinha de trigo fortificada, constituindo o grupo exposto (EC), e de outras 2 creches (n = 85) receberam pães não fortificados, compondo o grupo-controle (CG), durante 24 semanas. Pães contendo 4 mg de ferro foram oferecidos uma vez ao dia, cinco dias por semana. As concentrações de hemoglobina foram determinadas no sangue capilar por HemoCue® em três momentos do estudo: momento inicial (M1), após 12 e 24 semanas da intervenção (M2, M3). RESULTADOS: A concentração de hemoglobina apresentou aumento significativo até M3 no EG (11,7-12,5-12,6 g/dL) e no CG (11,1-12,4-12,3 g/dL) com maiores elevações nas crianças inicialmente anêmicas. Houve redução significativa na ocorrência de anemia de 22 por cento a 9 por cento no EG e de 47 por cento a 8,2 por cento no CG em M3. CONCLUSÃO: Os pães fortificados com sulfato ferroso microencapsulado foram bem tolerados, elevando os níveis de hemoglobina e reduzindo a ocorrência de anemia, porém sem diferenças em relação ao grupo-controle.

Effect of Iron Deficiency Anemia on Hemoglobin A1c Levels

BACKGROUND: Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia in India. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is used in diabetic patients as an index of glycemic control reflecting glucose levels of the previous 3 months. Like blood sugar levels, HbA1c levels are also affected by the presence of variant hemoglobins, hemolytic anemias, nutritional anemias, uremia, pregnancy, and acute blood loss. However, reports on the effects of iron deficiency anemia on HbA1c levels are inconsistent. We conducted a study to analyze the effects of iron deficiency anemia on HbA1c levels and to assess whether treatment of iron deficiency anemia affects HbA1c levels. METHODS: Fifty patients confirmed to have iron deficiency anemia were enrolled in this study. HbA1c and absolute HbA1c levels were measured both at baseline and at 2 months after treatment, and these values were compared with those in the control population. RESULTS: The mean baseline HbA1c level in anemic patients (4.6%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (5.5%, p<0.05). A significant increase was observed in the patients' absolute HbA1c levels at 2 months after treatment (0.29 g/dL vs. 0.73 g/dL, p<0.01). There was a significant difference between the baseline values of patients and controls (0.29 g/dL vs. 0.74 g/dL, p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to the observations of previous studies, ours showed that HbA1c levels and absolute HbA1c levels increased with treatment of iron deficiency anemia. This could be attributable to nutritional deficiency and/or certain unknown variables. Further studies are warranted.