COMPLEMENT DYSREGULATION IN PEDIATRIC IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA

Abstract

Introduction: Complement proteins are key players in the innate immune system. Children with iron

deficiency often experience impaired immunity, making them more prone to infections. This study aimed

to measure serum levels of C3 and C4 complement proteins in children with iron deficiency anemia.

Methods: The study included 50 children under 15 years old diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia,

alongside 50 healthy controls. All participants underwent a comprehensive clinical assessment, complete

blood count (CBC), and laboratory tests measuring serum ferritin, iron, total iron-binding capacity

(TIBC), and complement proteins (C3 and C4). Results: Compared to the healthy controls, children with

iron deficiency anemia showed significantly lower levels of ferritin, TIBC, hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit

(HCT), mean cell volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin

concentration (MCHC), and red blood cells (RBC) count (p < 0.05). Additionally, serum complement

proteins C3 and C4 were significantly reduced in the iron-deficient group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01)

respectively, suggesting impaired complement activation. Notably, neutrophil and monocyte counts were

elevated in the iron-deficient group, indicating an altered immune response. Conclusion: The study

revealed that serum levels of C3 and C4 complement proteins were significantly altered in children with

iron deficiency anemia, potentially contributing to their increased susceptibility to infections.