Question
A 6-month-old baby received a blood routine test, and the results showed multiple abnormal indicators. The report indicated a white blood cell count of 7.5, hemoglobin of 107 (below the normal range), red blood cell mean volume of 76.0 (below the normal range), and mean hemoglobin concentration of 347, etc. What do these abnormalities suggest? Additionally, during the finger prick, the nurse did not change gloves, and there was a suspected red substance at the tip of the finger, causing concern about possible infection, especially with HIV. I might be overconcerned, but I cannot control this worry. Please analyze from a medical perspective and provide solutions.
Answer
Based on the provided blood routine data, the child may have iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. If diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, it can be treated through dietary supplementation or maternal supplementation. Specific recommendations include further checking ferritin saturation and serum iron levels. If these indicators are abnormal, follow the doctor’s orders for treatment. Dietary supplementation can be achieved by consuming iron-rich foods such as pork liver, chicken liver, egg yolks, lean meat, wood ear mushrooms, celery, etc. If the above indicators are normal, further genetic testing for thalassemia is needed. If there are abnormalities, targeted treatment should be administered.