Assessment of Hematological Profiles in Children Treated Under General Anesthesia for ECC - A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Early Childhood Caries (ECC) remains a global public health concern linked to systemic factors including hematological profiles, influencing immune and nutritional status.

Aim: To assess hematological and biochemical parameters in children treated under general anesthesia (GA) for ECC and evaluate age-related correlations.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 479 children aged 1–6 years undergoing dental treatment under GA for ECC. Parameters recorded included hemoglobin, leukocyte differentials, platelet count, ESR, clotting and bleeding time, and blood glucose. Correlation analysis was performed using Pearson’s test.

Results: Neutrophils (r = 0.21, p = 0.0001), hemoglobin (r = 0.12, p = 0.0088), random blood sugar (r = 0.11, p = 0.014), platelet count (r = 0.086, p = 0.041), monocytes (r = 0.12, p = 0.0502), and clotting time (r = 0.067, p = 0.033) showed a significant positive correlation with age. Eosinophils (r = -0.14, p = 0.0001) and basophils (r = -0.15, p = 0.0001) decreased with age. Total WBC count, ESR, and RBC count showed no significant correlation (p > 0.05). Most parameters remained within pediatric reference ranges.

Conclusion: Significant correlations between hematological parameters and age in children with ECC highlight the role of systemic health monitoring in pediatric dental care to enhance ECC prevention and management strategies.