Endocrine complications of thalassemia

Growth, sexual development, fertility, bone mineral density, diabetes melli tus, hypothyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and hypoadrenalism are the main is sues to be addressed in the long-term follow-up of patients with thalassemi a. During childhood, growth may be affected by anemia, and other potential endocrine complications. Puberty is the stage of the maximal growth insult. Beta thalassemia is associated with bone abnormalities characterized by bo ne marrow expansion of the medullary cavity, and osteopenia with cortical t hickening and trabecular coarsening. Good nutrition with adequate vitamins and trace elements intake, along with calcium and vitamin D supplementation , can increase bone density and prevent bone loss. Endocrine abnormalities should be monitored carefully and a thorough endocrine evaluation should be carried out yearly in every patients to detect subclinical endocrinopaties . (C) 2001, Editrice Kurtis.