Role of intravenous iron therapy in children with severe acute malnutrition with iron deficiency anemia

Abhijeet Sharad Naik; Nilesh Vitthalrao Ahire; Suhas Vasantrao Patil; Suvarna Abhijeet Naik

doi:10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20263303

Authors

Abhijeet Sharad Naik Department of Paediatrics, MPGIMER, MUHS Nashik, Maharashtra, India
Nilesh Vitthalrao Ahire Department of Paediatrics, MPGIMER, MUHS Nashik, Maharashtra, India
Suhas Vasantrao Patil Department of Paediatrics, MPGIMER, MUHS Nashik, Maharashtra, India
Suvarna Abhijeet Naik Department of Clinical Trial Unit, CHAKRA, MUHS Nashik, Maharashtra, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20263303

Keywords:

Severe acute malnutrition, Iron deficiency anemia, Intravenous iron sucrose therapy, Pediatric anemia, Hematological outcomes

Abstract

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common micronutrient deficiency among children under five years of age, with severe acute malnutrition (SAM). The coexistence of SAM and IDA increases the risk of impaired growth, developmental delay, recurrent infections, hospitalization, and mortality. Oral iron supplementation is the standard treatment but is often limited in children with SAM because of poor tolerance, reduced absorption. Intravenous (IV) iron sucrose may provide rapid correction of iron deficiency; however, evidence regarding its safety and efficacy in this population is limited. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of IV iron sucrose therapy in children with SAM and IDA.

Methods: This observational study was conducted in children under five years, with SAM and diagnosed with IDA. Sample size was 65, after stabilization, eligible and clinically stable children received IV iron sucrose in 50ml normal saline administered over 30 minutes on days 7^th, 10^th, and 13^th as per Ganzoni’s formula. Follow-up assessments were performed on day 14, 30, and 45, including anthropometry and hematological parameters. Adverse events were monitored.

Results: A total of 65 children with SAM and IDA were enrolled. Mean hemoglobin (Hb) increased from 6.19 g/dL at baseline to 9.62 g/dL at follow-up. Serum ferritin improved from 28.8 µg/L to 157.49 µg/L. Red cell indices showed significant improvement. No serious adverse reactions were reported.

Conclusions: IV iron sucrose therapy is a safe and effective for correcting IDA in children with SAM, especially where oral iron therapy is poorly tolerated.

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