QCM : Childhood Anemia: Causes, Classification, and Management — 9 questions

Explication

The correct approach is to compare the child's haemoglobin level to the age-specific WHO thresholds, as these thresholds vary according to age and provide an accurate diagnosis. Using a single cutoff or adult thresholds ignores these important differences, leading to potential misdiagnosis. Physical signs alone are insufficient without laboratory confirmation.

Explication

The WHO uses age-specific haemoglobin thresholds to diagnose anemia because normal haemoglobin levels vary significantly across different ages in children, ensuring accurate diagnosis.

Explication

Increased destruction of red blood cells leads to a decrease in the number of circulating red blood cells, resulting in anemia. The source explains that excessive destruction, such as in hemolytic anemia, causes a reduction in red blood cell count, which is the basis of anemia.

Explication

Childhood anemia can adversely affect growth, cognitive development, and immune function, potentially leading to permanent health issues if untreated.

Explication

The morphology of RBCs, including their shape, size, and appearance, provides clues about the underlying cause of anemia and helps in classification.

Explication

Childhood anemia typically results from three main causes: loss of RBCs, inadequate production by marrow, or destruction of RBCs, encompassing multiple etiologies.

Explication

Aplastic anemia involves bone marrow failure, leading to reduced production of all blood cell types, including RBCs, distinct from hemolytic or iron deficiency anemias.

Explication

Vitamin B12 deficiency primarily causes megaloblastic anemia due to impaired DNA synthesis, not increased destruction of RBCs, unlike hemolytic conditions.

Explication

RBC morphology varies with age, so evaluating RBCs must consider the child's developmental stage to accurately interpret findings and determine the cause of anemia.