Transient erythroblastopenia of childhood

Transient erythroblastopenia of childhood (TEC) is a slowly developing anemia of early childhood characterized by gradual onset of pallor.

Presentation
Individuals with TEC have a median age of presentation of 18-26 months; however, the disorder may occur in infants younger than 6 months and in children as old as age 10 years. Because of the gradual onset of the anemia, children are often healthier than expected from their low hemoglobin levels.

Cause
The cause of TEC is unknown, but it has been suggested that an infection with Parvovirus B19 plays a role.

Prognosis
Most patients recover completely within 1-2 months.