Thalassemia

Alternative Names

Treatment

People with severe thalassemia receive regular blood transfusions and folate supplements. People who receive the blood transfusions should avoid iron supplements and oxidative drugs such as sulfonamides, because iron levels in their bodies can become toxic.

Patients who receive significant numbers of blood transfusions require treatment to remove iron from the body (chelation therapy). Bone marrow transplant is being investigated as a treatment, and is most successful in children.

Outlook (Prognosis)

In severe thalassemia, death from heart failure can occur between the ages of 20 and 30. Hypertransfusion programs (frequent transfusions) with chelation therapy improve outcome. Successful bone marrow transplant is curative. Less severe forms of thalassemia usually do not shorten life span.

Possible Complications

Untreated, thalassemia major leads to heart failure and liver problems, as well as susceptibility to infection.

Iron overload as a side effect of treatment can cause damage to the heart, liver, and endocrine systems. This complication is managed by daily injections of an iron chelating agent, which binds to iron and causes it to be released from the body in the urine.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms develop that are suggestive of thalassemia.

Call your health care provider if symptoms develop after treatment.