Serum soluble transferrin receptor is a valuable diagnostic tool in iron deficiency of breath-holding spells

Handan U., Sukru C., Gulhis D., Hafize G., ELHAN A. H.

PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY, no.8, pp.711-716, 2005 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Publication Date: 2005
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/08880010500278855
  • Journal Name: PEDIATRIC HEMATOLOGY AND ONCOLOGY
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.711-716
  • Keywords: breath-holding spells, iron deficiency, serum transferrin receptor, ANEMIA, FERRITIN, CHILDREN
  • Ankara University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Iron-deficiency anemia may be a factor contributing to breath-holding spells. The serum transferrin receptor provides a useful measure of tissue iron deficiency. In this study of 50 breath-holders, while iron-deficiency anemia was detected in 28 (56%) of patients with routine tests, serum transferrin receptor levels were found increased in all patients. A positive correlation was detected between serum soluble transferrin receptor levels and frequency of attacks. It is suggested that the serum transferrin receptor level is useful as a single test for identification of iron deficiency in breath-holders. Moreover, if iron deficiency can be diagnosed earlier, then patients can be treated earlier.