| Daoud et al (1997) | 67 children with BHS were randomised to either ferrous sulphate or placebo | RCT (level 1b) | Frequency of BHS per month after 16 weeks. Complete response (no attacks), partial response (≥50% reduction), minimal or no response (<50% reduction) | Complete response in 51.5% treated v 0% in non-treatment group. Partial response in 36.4% treated group v 5.9% in non-treatment group. NNT for any response = 2 (95% CI 2 to 3) | The baseline mean Hb in children who showed a response was 86 g/l compared to 106 g/l in those that responded poorly (p=0.004) |
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| Mocan et al (1999) | 91 children with breath holding spells. 63 with concomitant IDA | Case control (level 4) | Frequency of BHS over the 3 months study period. Complete response (no attacks), partial response (≥50% reduction), no response | Complete response in 32% treated group and 21% more had partial response. NNT (for either a partial or complete response) = 2 (95% CI 2 to 3) | Only those children with BHS and IDA were treated with iron. The placebo group were those with BHS but normal Hb |
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| Bhatia et al (1990) | 50 children with BHS | Case series (level 4) | A reduction in frequency and severity of BHS following a course of iron which was continued until Hb >11 g/dl | 96% of the study group had IDA (mean Hb = 8.12 g/dl). 82% showed a response within 2 weeks. After three weeks 100% of cases had shown an improvement | Failed to define improvement |