Eficacia de la lactoferrina como tratamiento para la anemia ferropénica en niños: revisión sistemática

Abstract

Background: Iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) is a global public health problem, especially in children, affecting cognitive, motor, and immune development. Treatment with iron salts is effective but causes gastrointestinal side effects that affect adherence. Lactoferrin, a glycoprotein with high affinity for iron and anti-inflammatory properties, has emerged as a more tolerable alternative. This study aims to evaluate its efficacy and tolerability in children with IDA in Ecuador, compared with conventional treatment. Objectives: To generate scientific evidence to improve the management of iron-deficiency anemia in children, optimizing treatment adherence and effectiveness. A systematic review of clinical and observational studies in lactoferrin for the treatment of IDA in children was conducted, using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and SciELO between 2015 and 2025. Methods: Studies involving children with iron-deficiency anemia, an intervention with lactoferrin, compared with placebo or iron supplements, and at least one outcome on efficacy (hemoglobin, ferritin) or safety were included. Studies in adults, non-representative samples, or publications without peer review were excluded. Selection was conducted in two phases by independent reviewers. Methodological quality was assessed using the NHLBI tools and the ROB 2 tool, following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results: Relevant clinical data (hemoglobin, ferritin, dose, treatment duration, and demographic characteristics) were extracted and standardized to evaluate the comparative efficacy of lactoferrin, using effect measures and risk ratios. Keywords: childhood anemia, iron deficiency, lactoferrin, alternative treatment, public health.