A child aged two years presents with anemia. Peripheral smear shows target cells and hypochromic/microcytic?

Question:

what test you would like to do?

Answers:
Electrophoresis.

Thanks, Kasey for your explanation.

The most common cause of anemia in children is iron deficiency which results in the microcytic/hypochromic cell types on the peripheral blood smear.

Useful tests can include serum iron, TIBC (total iron binding capacity), ferritin, reticulocyte count, hemoglobin electropharesis and a lead level.

However, a simple trial of supplemental dietary iron would be the most sensible and cost effective approach.

So the answer I wouldn't necessarily do any further testing until an iron trial is attempted unless the anemia is severe.

Loving Heart is right... Target cells present with hypochromia and microcytosis are often found in hemoglobinopathies --- like Thalassemia. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is a blood test to check for the presence of variant types of hemoglobins in your blood. Additionally, it would be helpful to know the individual's ethnic background - thalassemia is mostly found in those of Mediterrean descent.

A child aged two years presents with anemia. Peripheral smear shows target cells and hypochromic/microcytic?

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