Question

The 22-month-old baby has anemia issues and recently developed a fever of unknown cause. Concerned whether it could be an early symptom of leukemia.

Answer

Anemia is not a single disease; the most common type is iron deficiency anemia, diagnosed by low hemoglobin levels within the normal range, along with a reduced mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and low serum iron test results. Oral iron supplements are the primary treatment method, with commonly used drugs including ferrous sulfate, ferrous sulfate heptahydrate, and dextran iron. It is recommended to take these after meals to reduce side effects. Additionally, it is advised to consume iron-rich foods such as lean meat, pork liver, nori, and black fungus. If none of the above conditions apply, consider the possibility of Mediterranean anemia.