IRON DEFICIENCY STATES IN CHILDREN: CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA AND MODERN STRATEGIES FOR CORRECTION

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) remains one of the most common forms of nutritional deficiency in children and represents a significant medical and social problem worldwide, including in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The most vulnerable age groups include infants and young children, preschool-aged children, and adolescents, whose increased iron requirements are associated with intensive growth and development. Delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment of IDA may result in impaired physical and neuropsychological development, reduced cognitive function, altered immune responsiveness, and decreased quality of life. This article reviews current approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency anemia in children, taking into account international clinical guidelines and the specific characteristics of pediatric healthcare delivery in the Republic of Uzbekistan. Modern laboratory diagnostic methods are discussed, including the assessment of hemoglobin concentration, serum ferritin levels, transferrin saturation, and other indicators of iron metabolism. Current treatment principles are presented, including the use of oral iron preparations,dietary modification, prevention of iron deficiency, and monitoring of treatment efficacy. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of early detection, timely initiation of treatment, and preventive measures aimed at reducing the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among the pediatric population of Uzbekistan. Improvement of diagnostic algorithms and implementation of current clinical guidelines may contribute to enhancing the quality of pediatric healthcare and improving long-term treatment outcomes.