Effect of iron chelator desferrioxamine on serum zinc levels in patients with beta thalassemia major
- Author:
Sadia Sultan, Syed Mohammed Irfan, Jamaluddin Kakar
;
Rozina Zeeshan
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
β thalassemia major;
zinc deficiency;
desferrioxamine
- From:The Malaysian Journal of Pathology
2015;37(1):35-38
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
β-thalassemia is the most common genetic disorder worldwide with an increased prevalence around
the Mediterranean, Indian subcontinent and in South-East Asia. Various siderotic and non-siderotic
complications significantly impact the quality of life. Thalassemic patients are also at risk of zinc
deficiency due to diverse causes including desferrioxamine chelation. This study sought to investigate
the prevalence of zinc deficiency in beta thalassemia major patients on desferrioxamine for iron
chelation. Study design: This was a descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional study over a 6-month
period. 63 cases of beta thalassemia major within the age group of 5-15 years on desferrioxamine
for at least 1 year, were included. Basic patient demographics such as age, gender and duration of
disease were recorded. Serum zinc levels were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry.
Results: The mean age of patients was 10.84±3.47 (5 to 15) years. There were 35 (55.6%) males and
28(44.4%) females. The prevalence of zinc deficiency (zinc levels < 50 μg / dl) was 22.2%. Proportions
of deficiency were higher in males with a duration of disease beyond 10 years. Conclusions: Zinc
deficiency is not uncommon in beta thalassemia patients on desferrioxamine. We suggest that zinc
levels be regularly monitored in these patients.
- Full text:P020150911604597891562.pdf
