Autoimmune Gastritis in Children: A Rare Cause of Refractory Iron-Deficiency Anemia.

ABSTRACT: Background and Clinical Significance: Pediatric autoimmune gastritis (AIG) is a rare and frequently underdiagnosed disorder characterized by chronic immune-mediated inflammation and atrophy of the gastric mucosa. In children, AIG typically presents with iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) refractory to oral iron supplementation, in contrast to the pernicious anemia more commonly observed in adults. Diagnosis relies on a combination of serological markers, such as anti-parietal cell antibodies, and histopathological confirmation, with gastric biopsies demonstrating oxyntic mucosal atrophy and lymphocytic infiltration. Early recognition is essential, particularly in patients with personal or familial autoimmune backgrounds, to prevent long-term complications including nutritional deficiencie

SUBMITTER: Lendinez-Jurado A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12921746 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature