THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN CHILDHOOD: IRON REPLACEMENT PROTOCOLS AND CLINICAL FOLLOW-UP

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a disease caused by a lack of iron in the blood, and is a hematological condition most prevalent in the pediatric population. IDA is a significant public health and clinical problem, especially for the pediatric population, due to difficulties in early diagnosis, therapeutic adherence, and identification of specific forms of the disease. Therefore, for therapeutic management, with the goal of complete restoration of iron stores, oral pharmacotherapy with ferrous iron salts, such as ferrous sulfate, is the first-line strategy due to its low cost and proven efficacy. Intravenous iron is recommended for specific cases, such as intolerance, malabsorption, or unsatisfactory therapeutic response, requiring monitoring for possible adverse events. Diagnostic advances, including biomarkers such as soluble transferrin receptor and serum hepcidin, have been discussed as promising tools to improve diagnostic accuracy. Preventive strategies, such as delayed umbilical cord clamping, exclusive breastfeeding, and food fortification, are fundamental for maintaining iron homeostasis in the first years of life. Given its clinical and socioeconomic impact, this article aimed to analyze the most current and relevant evidence on the therapeutic management of iron deficiency anemia in the pediatric population, addressing pathophysiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects, as well as preventive measures and etiological factors.