Blood disorders are a broad group that involve the red blood cells (anemias), white blood cells (immunity) or platelets (clotting). For most of them, early diagnosis significantly changes the course. Below we summarize those that stand out in childhood.

Anemias

The most common cause is iron deficiency anemia — details in this article. The inherited anemias that are especially important for our region:

  • Thalassemia (Mediterranean anemia): Seen in the Mediterranean and Southeastern regions, where consanguineous marriage is common. Being a carrier causes no symptoms; when two carriers have a child, the severe (major) form may appear. This is why pre-marital screening is so valuable.
  • Sickle cell anemia: Progresses with pain crises and a predisposition to infection.

Clotting Disorders

  • Hemophilia: An inherited disease that generally affects boys and is marked by a tendency to bleed
  • ITP: Immune-mediated low platelet count

When Should a Blood Disorder Be Suspected?

  • Paleness, weakness, tiring easily, loss of appetite
  • Easy bruising, bleeding that does not stop, frequent nosebleeds
  • Recurrent fever + bone and joint pain + swollen lymph nodes
  • Growth delay, jaundice, enlarged spleen
  • A family history of inherited blood disease

In the presence of these findings, the first step is usually a simple complete blood count (CBC); if needed, a referral to pediatric hematology is made. At our clinic, a CBC and basic blood tests can be performed.