Mentzer Index As Ascreening Toot For Iron Deficiency Anemia In 6 To 12 Years Old Children

Original Article

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of mentzer index as a screening tool for iron deficiency anemia in 6 to 12 years old children taking serum ferritin as gold standard.

Study Design: A Cross Sectional Study.

Place And Duration Of Study: Department of Pediatrics PAF Hospital Islamabad from 22-Aug-2024 to 22-Dec 2024

Methodology: A cross sectional descriptive study was done on 150 children, 6-12 years of age, who were clinically suspected to have anemia. Blood examination including complete blood count was done for each patient and Mentzer index was determined. The children with index > 13 were tested for IDA based on serum ferritin level while those with < 13 were also tested for thalassemia. Data analysis comprised of getting average, standard deviation and also the probability value (p-value).

Results: Among 150 children, ascertainment of IDA could be made in 95 children based on Mentzer Index >13. The mean Mentzer Index were 14. 2 ± 1. 5 among their patients while among the thalassemia patients the mean index were 11. 6 ± 1. 2. The difference was also found to be significant at p < 0. 05. The accuracy of Mentzer Index in identifying IDA was 87% with sensitivity of 88% specificity of 85%.

Conclusions: Mentzer index is a cheap and effective method of screening for iron deficiency anemia in children. It accurately distinguishes IDA from thalassemia so as to ensure early diagnosis and management in LMICs.