To estimate sex-specific ferritin reference curves (RCs) and optimal curves (OCs) for preadolescent children, emphasizing the importance of these estimates in improving the diagnosis of iron deficiency.
Key Findings:
Significant heterogeneity in reported ferritin reference intervals (RIs) limits reliable pooled estimates, with specific examples of the ranges observed.
Emerging evidence suggests that the current distribution-based lower limit of ferritin RIs may lead to underdiagnosis of iron deficiency, highlighting the need for revised thresholds.
WHO and proposed ASH thresholds for ferritin levels may not align with optimal iron health for children, necessitating further investigation.
Interpretation:
The study highlights the need for age- and sex-specific ferritin reference ranges and optimal levels to improve the diagnosis of iron deficiency in children, with implications for clinical practice.
Limitations:
Existing studies on pediatric ferritin reference curves are limited and heterogeneous, which may introduce biases.
The study may not fully represent all pediatric populations due to exclusion criteria, potentially affecting the generalizability of the findings.
Conclusion:
Developing sex-specific ferritin RCs and OCs can enhance clinical decision-making regarding iron deficiency in children, aligning with emerging evidence and expert recommendations, and contributing to public health initiatives.
by Vid Bijelić, Franco Momoli, Mira Liebman, Beth K. Potter, Cornelia M. Borkhoff, Catherine S. Birken, Jonathon L. Maguire, Patricia C. Parkin, Jemila S. Hamid
