Pediatric Hematology

Question 1

Neonates with this disorder present with isolated thrombocytopenia and absent radii with thumbs.

Answer 1

Thrombocytopenia Absent Radii (TAR)

Question 2

True/False. Formula is a protective factor against iron-deficiency anemia as it is fortified with iron.

Answer 2

False - formula does not have iron. Babies who are exclusively breastfed are less likely to become iron deficient

Question 3

What risk factor is most associated with folate deficiency in babies?

Answer 3

Exclusive goat’s milk consumption

Question 4

Lead toxicity will cause what type of anemia?

Answer 4

Microcytic, hypochromic

Question 5

What is the most common risk factor for the development of iron-deficiency anemia in infants?

Answer 5

Cow milk intake - especially before 1yo

Question 6

True/False. Nucleated RBCs should not be seen in newborns.

Answer 6

False - nucleated RBCs are present until a week after birth

Question 7

A newborn’s Hb levels will be (higher/lower) than adult levels at birth.

Answer 7

Higher - the fetus is in a relatively hypoxic state so increased Hb is needed

Question 8

How are hemorrhagic disorders prevented in newborns?

Answer 8

Vitamin K injection at birth

Question 9

What is the most common cause of anemia in children?

Answer 9

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Question 10

What is the leading cause of death in adolescents with sickle cell disease?

Answer 10

Acute Chest Syndrome

Question 11

True/False. Most pediatric cases of lead toxicity in the US are not severe and do not require intervention.

Answer 11

True - treatment is required when lead levels exceed 45mcg

Question 12

This disorder is characterized by pancytopenia, absent thumbs, and an increased risk of leukemia.

Answer 12

Fanconi anemia

Question 13

What is idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura?

Answer 13

Destruction of platelets bound by antibodies. This often occurs after an acute viral infection

Question 14

What is the most common cause of B12 deficiency in babies?

Answer 14

Exclusive breastfeeding by vegan mothers

Question 15

What is physiologic nadir of infancy?

Answer 15

Occurs around 2 months, this is a low point in Hb (9-11) following birth before increasing

Question 16

It is recommended that babies begin eating cereal around 6mo. Why is this?

Answer 16

Around 6mo, babies deplete the mother’s iron stores in breastmilk and receive less iron. Cereal is enriched with iron

Question 17

This is a disorder characterized by deficient RBC precursors and abnormal thumbs.

Answer 17

Diamond-Blackfan Syndrome