Clinical, biological and therapeutic profile of children hospitalized for anemia in Kisangani care establishments in DR Congo

Abstract

Introduction: Anemia is one of the main causes of morbidity and infant mortality in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is particularly frequent in children under the age of five, often aggravated by malaria, malnutrition and sickle cell anem. This study haswas carried out at the TSHOPO HGR in order to describe the clinical, biological and therapeutic characteristics of children hospitalized for anemia.

Methodology: This is a descriptive transversal study carried out from January 1 to September 31, 2024. The sample concerned 135 children aged 0 to 5 hospitalized for anemia biologically confirmed. Soci -demographic, clinical, biological and therapeutic data have been collected and analyzed.

Results: The frequency of severe anemia was 30 %, with an average age of 33 months and a female predominance (53.3 %). The main consultation reasons were fever (100 %), pallor (94.4 %), anorexia (88.8 %) and shortness of breath (75.5 %). The etiologies found were dominated by malaria (84.4 %), infections (60 %), nutritional deficiency (37.5 %) and sickle cell anemia (33.3 %). After treatment, 82 % of children had had rapid improvement, but 28 % had paid and 10 % weredeceased.

Conclusion: Infantile anemia remains a major pediatric emergency in Kisangani, with strong hospital letters. Malaria, malnutrition and sickle cell anemia are the main causes. An integrated strategy combining prevention, access to quality care and strengthening of the health system is necessary to reduce the morbidity and mortality linked to anemia.