Iron deficient children and significance of serum ferritin

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the significance of serum ferritin in iron deficiency anaemia as compared to other indices. Children were selected as anaemic and non-anaemic on the basis of hemoglobin [10g/dl] and transferrin saturation [15%]. Red cell morphology, hemoglobin, serum iron, TIBC, transferrin saturation and serum ferritin were determined. Red cell morphology was of little significance. Haemoglobin, serum iron, transferrin saturation and serum ferritrin were all lower in children. A positive correlation of serum ferritin with age, haemoglobin, serum iron and transferrin saturation and a negative correlation with TIBC was found. Serum ferritin was more sensitive indicator as compared to serum iron, TIBC, and transferrin saturation