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Pallor, Pediatric

David T. Teachey, MD Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Pallor is defined as paleness of the skin and may be a reflection of anemia or poor peripheral perfusion.

  • The normal range for hemoglobin is age-dependent.

  • Anemia can be defined functi...

DIAGNOSIS

  • Determine first that the child appears pale, not simply fair skinned. Second, decide if there is a medical emergency associated with circulatory failure. If not, the goal is to investigate t...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Treat underlying cause.

  • Consider packed RBC transfusion if in extremis or severe anemia and low likelihood of recovery in near future.

  • Consider emergent plasmapheresis if with ...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Baker RD, Greer FR; for Committee on Nutrition American Academy of Pediatrics. Diagnosis and prevention of iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia in infants and young children (...

CODES

ICD9

782.61 Pallor 

ICD10

R23.1 Pallor 

SNOMED

162738007 On examination - color pale (finding) 

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