RELATION BETWEEN IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA, IMMUNITY AND INFECTION IN CHILDREN (WEST OF ALGERIA)

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is one of the most prevalent micronutrient deficiencies particularly in the developing countries. While there is evidence of un altered immune profile in iron deficiency, the exact immunoregulatory role of iron is not known. Knowledge particularly in children, who are vulnerable to iron deficiency and infection, is lacking. To determine the prevalence and relation between iron deficiency anemia, infection and immune system in young children, we conducted a longitudinal study in Sidi bel abbes region (west of Algeria). Children were enrolled in two groups and followed during a six months period: the first group was composed of 401 children with iron deficiency anemia (study group) and the second group was composed of 226 healthy children (control group).

There was significant decrease in Hb concentration, RBCs count, hematocrit and MCV, in IDA patients when compared to the control group. Serum iron and ferritin were significantly lower in IDA patients (p<0.001). A significant difference in neutrophile and lymphocytic count could be detected on comparing both groups (p<0.001). The level of IgG, IgA, IgA was significantly higher in IDA children compared to the control (P<0.001).

The present study reveals a high rate of infection in IDA children. Bacillus was found in 19.45% of study group. We also found that 17.95% of anemic children have Enterobacter, 16.95% anemic patients have Pseudomonas, 59 patients with recurrent Clostridium also have iron deficiency anemia.

Serum ferritin was lower significantly in IDA children with Bacillus, Clostridium and Staphylococcus infection (p<0.001). Iron serum level was decreased in IDA children with Pseudomonas, E. coli and Neisseria infection.

An excellent comprehension of the mechanics of innate immunity paves the way for the possibility that novel antimicrobial therapeutics may emerge one day to overcome the prevalent antibiotic resistance in bacteria.