Abstract
Introduction: Thalassemia is an inherited disorder of hemoglobin synthesis. Regular blood transfusions and chelation therapy have noticeably prolonged survival in thalassemic patients.[1] Despite a significant increase in the lifespan of these patients, they suffer from multiple abnormalities probably due to iron overload, including endocrinal abnormalities such as hypogonadism, diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism and hypoparathyroidism.[2] The pattern of levels of vitamin D levels among the patients with thalassemia major undergoing repeated blood transfusions remain unexplored. Very few studies have been undertaken among Indian population.
Methodology: It is a prospective study and was conducted at St George hospital, Mumbai,on diagnosed patients of thalassemia major admitted to the pediatric wards. Duration of the study was 3 months and 36 patients were included.
Inclusion Criteria
- All admitted patients of thalassemia major aged 12 years and below.
Exclusion Criteria
- Chronic hemolyticanemia apart from thalassemia major
- Those that was very sick
- Those suffering from malnutrition
- Those who were on supplementation of calcium, phosphorus and vitamin d .
Patients who were willing to participate and sign the inform consent were enrolled in the study. Serum 25 hydroxyvit D levels were done using CLIA.
Results: The mean age of the studied thalassemia patients was 8.76 ± 3.7 years with no gender preponderance. Mean (SD) Vitamin D levels was 16.26 ±8.75 and was found to be statistically significant (p<0.001).
Conclusion: It is evident from the present study that the levels of vitamin D are deficient among β-thalassemia major patients on repeated blood transfusion. The deficiencies may be due to iron overload or due to nutritional deficiency. Frequent monitoring and supplementation in deficient states is recommended.
Keywords: Beta Thalassemia major, Vitamin D levels.
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Corresponding Author
Jyothi Janardhanan
M.D. Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Grant Govt Medical College, Mumbai, India
Postal Address: Kallelam House, Kozhummal, Kannur, Kerala, Pin: 670521
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i7.49
