[Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia. Guideline for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment.].

Iron deficiency is the most important causal factor of anemia. Preschoolers are particularly vulnerable; a recent analysis reported a prevalence rate higher than 35% among children less than 2 years old in Argentina. Its early detection, right treatment, and suitable prophylaxis currently take priority in our country. This guideline establishes the definition of anemia in relation to chronological age, gestational age and habitat, reviews main causes of iron deficiency, and sets guidelines for diagnosis, detection, differential