Understanding paediatric blood tests: what parents need to know

Posted By Suborna Fermi Posted on Nov 23, 2025

When it comes to keeping children healthy, regular medical checkups and basic screenings play a huge role. One important part of monitoring your child’s well-being is paediatric blood testing. While the idea of a blood test can make both parents and children a little anxious, these tests are incredibly helpful for understanding a child’s overall health, diagnosing issues early, and guiding the right treatments.

Why are paediatric blood tests important?

Children grow quickly, and during this rapid growth, their bodies go through many changes. Sometimes, symptoms of underlying conditions may not be visible on the surface. Paediatric blood tests help doctors get a clear picture of what's happening inside the body.

These tests can detect nutritional deficiencies, infections, thyroid imbalances, allergies, anaemia, and even growth-related concerns. They can also help in monitoring immune system function and evaluating how well organs like the liver and kidneys are working. A simple blood test can provide important clues that are essential during a routine child health checkup, especially when unexplained symptoms appear.

Common paediatric blood tests

Here are some blood tests often recommended for children:

• Complete blood count (CBC): Helps detect anaemia, infections, and blood-related disorders.
• Thyroid profile: Useful for identifying thyroid issues that can affect energy levels, growth, and learning.
• Vitamin D & B12 levels: Essential for bone health, immunity, and development.
• Iron studies: Detect iron deficiency, which is very common among growing children.
• Liver & kidney function tests: Ensure the organs are functioning normally.
• Blood sugar levels: Checks for diabetes or abnormal glucose levels.
• Allergy panel: Helps identify triggers behind frequent sneezing, skin rashes, or breathing issues.

Your child’s doctor will recommend specific tests depending on symptoms, family history, and age.

How paediatric blood tests are done

Most paediatric blood tests require only a small sample, usually taken from the arm. In babies, a heel prick may be used as an alternative. Trained technicians who specialise in working with children make the process as quick and gentle as possible.

To help ease anxiety, parents can talk to their child beforehand. Many clinics have child-friendly environments to make the experience less stressful. Also, you can opt for diagnostic centres that offer home sample collection facilities for ease.

When should children get blood tests?

Blood tests may be recommended if your child:

• Has frequent infections
• Shows signs of fatigue or weakness
• Has a poor appetite or slow growth
• Experiences unexplained weight loss or gain
• Has persistent digestive issues
• Displays behavioural or learning difficulties
• Has a family history of certain health conditions

Sometimes, blood tests are also recommended during annual checkups or before starting certain medications.

Thyrocare packages for paediatric screenings

Parents looking for affordable testing options often consider thyrocare packages, which offer a range of essential tests at cost-effective prices and also offer home sample collection facilities. These packages can help identify hidden health issues early, making them a convenient choice for regular monitoring and preventive care.

The biggest benefit of paediatric blood tests is early detection. When conditions are found early, treatment becomes more effective, complications are minimized, and children can continue to grow and thrive without interruption.