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Echocardiographic evaluation of left atrial strain for predicting iron overload in pediatric patients with β-thalassemia with preserved ejection fraction. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2023; 39:895-906. [PMID: 36607471 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-022-02788-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Pediatric patients with β-thalassemia (β-TM) with preserved ejection fraction may experience early myocardial damage. This prospective study aimed to investigate left atrial (LA) function restructure in pediatric patients with β-TM by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) and evaluate the value of LA strain for predicting myocardial iron overload (MIO). We recruited 50 β-TM pediatric patients and 30 healthy children aged 3-14 years. The patients were assigned to a normal left ventricular (LV) lesion group (n = 20) and an enlarged LV lesion group (n = 30). Subjects all underwent echocardiography to measure conventional cardiac function parameters and LA strain parameters. The results displayed that LA reservoir strain (LASr), conduit strain (LAScd), contractile strain (LASct) and strain rate were significantly reduced in pediatric patients with β-TM with preserved ejection fraction. LASr, LAScd, and LASct were negatively correlated with the E/e' ratio, of which LASr had the most significant correlation (r = - 0.69, P < 0.001). LASr and LASct correlated positively with T2* (r = 0.70 and 0.62, respectively, all P < 0.001). In the multiple regression, LASr and LASct were independent predictors for T2*. The areas under the curve for LASr and LASct were 0.87 (P < 0.001) and 0.78 (P = 0.004), respectively. Our results demonstrated that LA strains were dramatically impaired in pediatric patients with β-TM, and LASr is an efficient indicator for detecting LV early diastolic dysfunction in β-TM pediatric patients and reflects early myocardial damage. LASr and LASct were independently predictive of MIO, but LASr was a more sensitive predictor.
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Isa Tafreshi R, Radgoodarzi M, Arjmandi Rafsanjani K, Soheilipour F. Subclinical Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Children and Adolescence With Thalassemia Intermedia. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:774528. [PMID: 35783313 PMCID: PMC9249082 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.774528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac complications are important causes of morbidity in patients with thalassemia intermedia (TI). We aimed to assess left ventricular (LV) function, using new tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) indices, in order to diagnose early ventricular impairment in asymptomatic children and adolescence with the TI. MATERIALS AND METHODS We investigated possible differences in echocardiographic systolic and diastolic parameters between a population of 28 asymptomatic patients (mean age, 13.6 ± 5.7 years) and 35 age-matched healthy control members. All of them underwent 2-D, pulsed Doppler, and tissue Doppler echocardiographic studies for the assessment of the LV mass, Trans-mitral velocities, mitral annular systolic and diastolic velocities, myocardial performance index (MPI), and myocardial acceleration during isovolumic contraction (IVA). The cardiac iron load was estimated by magnetic resonance imaging T2*. RESULTS Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was found in 13 (46.4%) patients. We found significantly reduced TDI-derived peak systolic myocardial velocity (s') in patients, whereas no significant difference was identified between the patients and control group members when the IVA was compared. The ratio of peak mitral inflow velocity to annular early diastolic velocity (E/e') of the mitral valve as an index of the diastolic function was significantly higher in patients (9 ± 1 vs. 6 ± 1, p < 0.05). Choosing a TDI-derived MPI > 0.33 as a cutoff point, the global LV dysfunction was detected with a sensitivity of 78% and a specificity of 80%. The patients with LVH significantly exhibited higher values of TDI-MPI and lower values of s' velocity and IVA when compared against the subjects with normal LV mass. CONCLUSION Subtle LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction develops early in young patients with the TI who have normal cardiac iron concentration. Moreover, LV remodeling as a main cardiac adaptive response plays a principal role in developing myocardial impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Isa Tafreshi
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Ali Asghar Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Radgoodarzi
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kadijeh Arjmandi Rafsanjani
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Ali Asghar Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fahimeh Soheilipour
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Aliasghar Hospital, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Resende MBS, Ferrari TCA, Araujo CG, Vasconcelos MCM, Tupinambás JT, Dias RCTM, Barros FC, Januário JN, Barbosa MM, Nunes MCP. Prognostic value of left ventricular longitudinal strain by speckle-tracking echocardiography in patients with sickle cell disease. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2020; 36:2145-2153. [PMID: 32621039 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-020-01924-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular complications have been increasingly detected in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) detects early myocardial changes in a number of pathophysiological processes, which may be useful in SCD. This study was designed to examine the value of STE in predicting clinical outcome in adult patients with SCD. A total of 219 patients, mean age 33 ± 12 years were prospectively enrolled. Several clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic variables including left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) by STE were assessed. The endpoint was a composite of the following events: (1) all-cause mortality, (2) three or more acute painful episodes that require hospitalization in one year, (3) acute chest syndrome and (4) hospitalization due to disease complication. The majority of the patients had enlargement of LV and left atrial (LA) with preserved ejection fraction. During the mean follow-up of 30 months, 69 patients (32%) had reached the endpoint, including eight deaths (3.7%). No difference was observed in the parameters of diastolic function comparing the patients with and without events. LVGLS ranged from - 12.25 to - 25.44 (mean - 20.26 ± 2.5), with higher values in the patients who had events compared with those who did not. In the multivariable analysis, higher LVGLS values were associated with adverse events (adjusted OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.04-1.51; p = 0.021), independently of the TR maximal velocity and LV ejection fraction. In patients with SCD, higher LV global longitudinal strain was a predictor of adverse outcome, independently of age, TR velocity and LV function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Teresa Cristina A Ferrari
- School of Medicine, Hospital das Clinicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | - Julia Teixeira Tupinambás
- Fundação Centro de Hematologia E Hemoterapia de Minas Gerais (HEMOMINAS Foundation), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Flávio Coelho Barros
- School of Medicine, Hospital das Clinicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - José Nélio Januário
- School of Medicine, Núcleo de Ações E Pesquisa Em Apoio Diagnóstico (Nupad), Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Carmo Pereira Nunes
- School of Medicine, Hospital das Clinicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine of the Federal University of Minas Gerais. Av. Professor Alfredo Balena, 190, Santa Efigênia, Belo Horizonte, MG, 30130 100, Brazil.
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Karimi M, Zarei T, Haghpanah S, Azarkeivan A, Kattamis C, Ladis V, Kattamis A, Kilinc Y, Daar S, Alyaarubi S, Khater D, Wali Y, Elshinawy M, Almadhani A, Yassin M, Soliman AT, Canatan D, Obiedat M, Al-Rimawi H, Mariannis D, Christodoulides C, Christou S, Tzoulis P, Campisi S, Di Maio S, De Sanctis V. Evaluation of endocrine complications in beta-thalassemia intermedia (β-TI): a cross-sectional multicenter study. Endocrine 2020; 69:220-227. [PMID: 31853840 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-019-02159-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on the prevalence and type of endocrine disorders in β-thalassemia intermedia (β-TI) patients are scarce. This multicenter study was designed to determine the prevalence of endocrine complications and the associated risk factors in a large group of β-TI patients. METHODS In this cross-sectional multicenter study, 726 β-TI patients, aged 2.5-80 years, registered at 12 thalassemic centers, from nine countries, were enrolled during 2017. In a subgroup of 522 patients (mean age 30.8 ± 12.1; range: 2.5-80 years) from Qatar, Iran, Oman, Cyprus, and Jordan detailed data were available. RESULTS Overall, the most prevalent complications were osteopenia/osteoporosis (22.3%), hypogonadism (10.1%), and primary hypothyroidism (5.3%). In the subgroup multivariate analysis, older age was a risk factor for osteoporosis (Odds ratio: 7.870, 95% CI: 4.729-13.099, P < 0.001), hypogonadism (Odds ratio: 6.310, 95% CI: 2.944-13.521, P < 0.001), and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM; Odds ratio: 17.67, 95% CI: 2.217-140.968, P = 0.007). Splenectomy was a risk factor for osteoporosis (Odds ratio: 1.736, 95% CI: 1.012-2.977, P = 0.045). Hydroxyurea was identified as a "protective factor" for NIDDM (Odds ratio: 0.259, 95% CI: 0.074-0.902, P = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest cohort of β-TI patients with endocrine disorders evaluated in extremely heterogenic thalassemic populations for age, clinical, hematological, and molecular composition. The study demonstrates that endocrine complications are less common in patients with β-TI compared with β-TM patients. However, regular monitoring with timely diagnosis and proper management is crucial to prevent endocrine complications in β-TI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Karimi
- Hematology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Zarei
- Hematology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sezaneh Haghpanah
- Hematology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Azita Azarkeivan
- Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, Adult Thalassemia Clinic, Tehran, Iran
| | - Christos Kattamis
- Thalassemia Unit, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens "Agia Sofia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Vassilis Ladis
- Thalassemia Unit, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens "Agia Sofia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonios Kattamis
- Thalassemia Unit, Division of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, First Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens "Agia Sofia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Yurdanur Kilinc
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Medical Faculty, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Shahina Daar
- Department of Hematology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Saif Alyaarubi
- Department of Hematology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - Doaa Khater
- Department of Hematology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University and Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yasser Wali
- Department of Hematology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University and Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elshinawy
- Department of Hematology, College of Medicine & Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University and Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ali Almadhani
- Department of General Medicine, Sohar Hospital, Sohar, Oman
| | - Mohamed Yassin
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Hamad General Hospital Doha, Qatar and Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Alexandria University Children's Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ashraf T Soliman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Hamad General Hospital Doha, Qatar and Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Alexandria University Children's Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Duran Canatan
- Thalassemia Diagnosis Center of Mediterranean Blood Diseases Foundation, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Maha Obiedat
- King Abdullah University Hospital, Princess Rahma Teaching hospital, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hala Al-Rimawi
- King Abdullah University Hospital, Princess Rahma Teaching hospital, Irbid, Jordan
| | | | | | | | - Ploutarchos Tzoulis
- Department of Endocrinology, Whittington Hospital, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Vincenzo De Sanctis
- Pediatric and Adolescent Outpatient Clinic, Quisisana Hospital, Ferrara, Italy.
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The effect of desferrioxamine chelation versus no therapy in patients with non transfusion-dependent thalassaemia: a multicenter prospective comparison from the MIOT network. Ann Hematol 2018; 97:1925-1932. [PMID: 29926157 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-018-3397-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
We prospectively assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) the advantages of desferrioxamine (DFO) with respect to the absence of chelation therapy in non transfusion-dependent thalassaemia (NTDT) patients. We considered 18 patients non-chelated and 33 patients who received DFO alone between the two MRI scans. Iron overload was assessed by the T2* technique. Biventricular function parameters were quantified by cine sequences. No patient treated with DFO had cardiac iron. At baseline, only one non-chelated patient showed a pathological heart T2* value (< 20 ms) and he recovered at the follow-up. The percentage of patients who maintained a normal heart T2* value was 100% in both groups. A significant increase in the right ventricular ejection fraction was detected in DFO patients (3.48 ± 7.22%; P = 0.024). The changes in cardiac T2* values and in the biventricular function were comparable between the two groups. In patients with hepatic iron at baseline (MRI liver iron concentration (LIC) ≥ 3 mg/g/dw), the reduction in MRI LIC values was significant only in the DFO group (- 2.20 ± 4.84 mg/g/dw; P = 0.050). The decrease in MRI LIC was comparable between the groups. In conclusion, in NTDT patients, DFO therapy showed no advantage in terms of cardiac iron but its administration allowed an improvement in right ventricular function. Moreover, DFO reduced hepatic iron in patients with significant iron burden at baseline.
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A Comparison Between MRIT2 and NT-ProBNP in Early Detection of Heart Diseases in Thalassemia Major Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study. Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus 2017; 33:541-544. [PMID: 29075066 DOI: 10.1007/s12288-017-0797-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the most common causes of mortality in major thalassemia is cardiac complications. Despite existence of several methods for diagnosis of cardiac complications in thalassemia, this sequel persists as a major problem in these patients. The aim of this study is to compare the level of serum NT-ProBNP and cardiac MRI T2* in early detection and treatment of cardiac disorders in beta thalassemia major patients. 35 major thalassemic patients on regular transfusion were selected in our center from 2013 to 2014. All of the patients were at least 8 years old. NT-ProBNP and MRIT2* analyses were carried out for these patients, and consequently the findings were compared together and analyzed. There is a strong correlation between NT-ProBNP and MRIT2* (p value < 0.001) in early detection of cardiac disorders. NT-ProBNP is an important marker for diagnosis of cardiac complications before emergence of heart failure in thalassemic patients. Given the findings of this study, it is recommended that this marker be used on a regular basis for thalassemic patients on regular transfusion.
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Lao TT. Obstetric care for women with thalassemia. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2017; 39:89-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Bazarbachi AHA, Chaya BF, Moukhadder HM, Taher AT. Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassaemia: A Panoramic Survey from Pathophysiology to Treatment. EUROPEAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2016. [DOI: 10.33590/emj/10311793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-transfusion-dependent thalassaemia (NTDT) is a rather broad term that encompasses a group of thalassaemia syndromes, most commonly β-thalassaemia intermedia, haemoglobin E/β-thalassemia, and α-thalassaemia intermedia (haemoglobin H disease). Importantly, these entities do not require regular blood transfusions for survival, and therefore have transfusion independence. Clinical morbidities associated with the NTDTs are the end result of the culmination of three principal pathophysiological aberrancies: ineffective erythropoiesis, chronic anaemia (and associated haemolysis), and iron overload. Such complications involve multiple organs and organ systems; hence, the importance of prompt identification of at-risk individuals and holistic management of diagnosed subjects can never be overstated. Several management options, both medical and surgical, remain at the disposal of involved clinicians, with a significant body of data favouring the virtue of iron chelation therapy, fetal haemoglobin induction, and treatment with blood transfusions, the latter only when absolutely indicated, with reservation of splenectomy to a few select cases. Yet, a better understanding of the molecular phenomena at the origin of the disease process in the NTDT syndromes calls for a pressing need to explore novel therapeutic modalities, in light of the increasing incidence of NTDT in the developed world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bachar F. Chaya
- Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hassan M. Moukhadder
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali T. Taher
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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Barbero U, Longo F, Destefanis P, Gaglioti CM, Pozzi R, Piga A. Worsening of myocardial performance index in beta-thalassemia patients despite permanently normal iron load at MRI: A simple and cheap index reflecting cardiovascular involvement? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcme.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Sickle cell anemia mice develop a unique cardiomyopathy with restrictive physiology. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:E5182-91. [PMID: 27503873 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1600311113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiopulmonary complications are the leading cause of mortality in sickle cell anemia (SCA). Elevated tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity, pulmonary hypertension, diastolic, and autonomic dysfunction have all been described, but a unifying pathophysiology and mechanism explaining the poor prognosis and propensity to sudden death has been elusive. Herein, SCA mice underwent a longitudinal comprehensive cardiac analysis, combining state-of-the-art cardiac imaging with electrocardiography, histopathology, and molecular analysis to determine the basis of cardiac dysfunction. We show that in SCA mice, anemia-induced hyperdynamic physiology was gradually superimposed with restrictive physiology, characterized by progressive left atrial enlargement and diastolic dysfunction with preserved systolic function. This phenomenon was absent in WT mice with experimentally induced chronic anemia of similar degree and duration. Restrictive physiology was associated with microscopic cardiomyocyte loss and secondary fibrosis detectable as increased extracellular volume by cardiac-MRI. Ultrastructural mitochondrial changes were consistent with severe chronic hypoxia/ischemia and sarcomere diastolic-length was shortened. Transcriptome analysis revealed up-regulation of genes involving angiogenesis, extracellular-matrix, circadian-rhythm, oxidative stress, and hypoxia, whereas ion-channel transport and cardiac conduction were down-regulated. Indeed, progressive corrected QT prolongation, arrhythmias, and ischemic changes were noted in SCA mice before sudden death. Sudden cardiac death is common in humans with restrictive cardiomyopathies and long QT syndromes. Our findings may thus provide a unifying cardiac pathophysiology that explains the reported cardiac abnormalities and sudden death seen in humans with SCA.
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Prevalence and Risk Factors for Complications in Patients with Nontransfusion Dependent Alpha- and Beta-Thalassemia. Anemia 2015; 2015:793025. [PMID: 26664743 PMCID: PMC4667021 DOI: 10.1155/2015/793025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. Nontransfusion dependent thalassemia (NTDT) is a milder form of thalassemia that does not require regular transfusion. It is associated with many complications, which differ from that found in transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT). Currently available information is mostly derived from beta-NTDT; consequently, more data is needed to describe complications found in the alpha-NTDT form of this disease. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of NTDT patients from January 2012 to December 2013. Complications related to thalassemia were reviewed and compared. Results. One hundred patients included 60 females with a median age of 38 years. The majority (54 patients) had alpha-thalassemia. Overall, 83 patients had one or more complications. The three most common complications were cholelithiasis (35%), abnormal liver function (29%), and extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) (25%). EMH, cardiomyopathy, cholelithiasis, and pulmonary hypertension were more commonly seen in beta-thalassemia. Osteoporosis was the only complication that was more common in alpha-thalassemia. The risk factors significantly related to EMH were beta-thalassemia type and hemoglobin < 8 g/dL. The risk factors related to osteoporosis were female gender and age > 40 years. Iron overload (ferritin > 800 ng/mL) was the only risk factor for abnormal liver function. Conclusion. The prevalence of alpha-NTDT complications was lower and different from beta-thalassemia.
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Taher AT, Radwan A, Viprakasit V. When to consider transfusion therapy for patients with non-transfusion-dependent thalassaemia. Vox Sang 2015; 108:1-10. [PMID: 25286743 PMCID: PMC4302976 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 07/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Non-transfusion-dependent thalassaemia (NTDT) refers to all thalassaemia disease phenotypes that do not require regular blood transfusions for survival. Thalassaemia disorders were traditionally concentrated along the tropical belt stretching from sub-Saharan Africa through the Mediterranean region and the Middle East to South and South-East Asia, but global migration has led to increased incidence in North America and Northern Europe. Transfusionists may be familiar with β-thalassaemia major because of the lifelong transfusions needed by these patients. Although patients with NTDT do not require regular transfusions for survival, they may require transfusions in some instances such as pregnancy, infection or growth failure. The complications associated with NTDT can be severe if not properly managed, and many are directly related to chronic anaemia. Awareness of NTDT is important, and this review will outline the factors that should be taken into consideration when deciding whether to initiate and properly plan for transfusion therapy in these patients in terms of transfusion interval and duration of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A T Taher
- American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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Mohammad AM. Echocardiographic evaluation of thalassemia intermedia patients in Duhok, Iraq. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2014; 14:183. [PMID: 25495194 PMCID: PMC4272797 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2261-14-183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac complications are among the most serious problems of thalassemia intermedia patients. The current study was initiated to address the latter issue through the study of the echocardiographic findings and correlate it with clinical characteristics of thalassemia intermedia patients in Duhok, Kurdistan region, Iraq. METHODS An echocardiographic assessment of 61 beta-thalassemia intermedia cases was performed. It included 30 males and 31 females, with a mean age 19.6 ± 7.5 years. The standard echostudy of two-dimension and M-mode measurements of cardiac chambers were done. The continuous doppler regurgitant jet of tricuspid and pulmonary valves were recorded. Left ventricle diastolic function was assessed by pulsed doppler of mitral valve inflow. To correlate the clinical with echocardiographic findings, patients were divided, according to tricuspid regurgitant velocity, into three groups (<2.5 m/sec, 2.5-2.9 m/sec and ≥3 m/sec). RESULTS Tricuspid regurgitant velocity <2.5 m/sec, 2.5-2.9 m/sec and ≥3 m/sec occurred in 42(69%), 11(18%) and 8(13%) respectively. Comparing to other groups patients with tricuspid regurgitant velocity ≥3 m/sec were older and included more males. They had lower hemoglobin levels, but higher ferritin levels. Their age at diagnosis and the age of the initiation of blood transfusion were later. Most of them had significant exertional dyspnea. They also had relatively lower left ventricle ejection fraction values. Right ventricular diameter and right atrial size were larger in the same group. Tricuspid regurgitant velocity as a continuous predictor was associated positively with age, cardiac volumes and pulmonary regurgitation though negatively associated with ejection fraction. CONCLUSIONS Echo-derived right and left side cardiac complications are not uncommon in thalassemia intermedia patients. Therapeutic trails targeting these complications are indicated, and echocardiographic assessment is necessary to be offered early for thalassemia intermedia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameen Mosa Mohammad
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Medical School, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Duhok University, Kurdistan, Iraq.
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Harb AR, Saliba AN, Taher AT. Non-Transfusion Dependent Thalassemia: Translating Evidence to Guidelines. THALASSEMIA REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.4081/thal.2014.4863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The thalassemias are a group of inherited disorders of hemoglobin synthesis characterized by various degrees of defective production of the α- or β-globin chains of adult hemoglobin A. Non-transfusion- dependent thalassemia (NTDT) includes a group of thalassemia patients who do not require regular RBC transfusions for survival, but may require occasional transfusions due to infection or pregnancy or may require more regular transfusions later in life due to splenomegaly or other complications. Due to the rising phenomenon of global migration, this previously well-localized entity is currently spreading more and more worldwide reaching Northern America and Northern Europe. The clinical picture of NTDT is governed by the severity of the ineffective erythropoiesis and the chronic hemolytic anemia, which, in turn, lead to iron overload, hypercoagulability, and an array of clinical complications involving almost every organ system. Patients with NTDT suffer from complications that are distinct from those encountered in patients with transfusion- dependent thalassemia (TDT) in addition to the complications shared by both TDT and NTDT. As a consequence, patients with NTDT deserve a care specifically tailored to their needs. In the care of patients with NTDT, aiming at a standardized yet personalized care is not an easy task especially that NTDT patients lie on a heterogeneous spectrum with a wide variability in their clinical presentation and response to therapy. Therefore, guidelines emerge as a necessity to answer the specific needs of NTDT patients and the clinicians caring for them. In this article, we summarize the complications most commonly associated with NTDT and the recommendations of the guidelines for the management of patients with NTDT, based on the best available evidence.
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Derchi G, Galanello R, Bina P, Cappellini MD, Piga A, Lai ME, Quarta A, Casu G, Perrotta S, Pinto V, Musallam KM, Forni GL. Prevalence and Risk Factors for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in a Large Group of β-Thalassemia Patients Using Right Heart Catheterization. Circulation 2014; 129:338-45. [DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.113.002124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Derchi
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Renzo Galanello
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Patrizio Bina
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Maria Domenica Cappellini
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Antonio Piga
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Maria-Eliana Lai
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Antonella Quarta
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Gavino Casu
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Silverio Perrotta
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Valeria Pinto
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Khaled M. Musallam
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
| | - Gian Luca Forni
- From the Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy (G.D., V.P., G.L.F.); University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy (R.G., P.B., M.-E.L.); IRCCS Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy (M.D.C., K.M.M.); University of Turin, Turin, Italy (A.P.); Perrino Hospital, Brindisi, Italy (A.Q.); S. Francesco Hospital, Nuoro, Italy (G.C.); and Seconda University, Naples, Italy (S.P.)
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Akrawinthawong K, Chaowalit N, Chatuparisuth T, Siritanaratkul N. Effectiveness of deferiprone in transfusion‐independent beta‐thalassemia/HbE patients. Hematology 2013; 16:113-22. [DOI: 10.1179/102453311x12940641877768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nithima Chaowalit
- Division of CardiologyDepartment of Internal Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Thanasaporn Chatuparisuth
- Division of HematologyDepartment of Internal Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Noppadol Siritanaratkul
- Division of HematologyDepartment of Internal Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand
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Delaporta P, Kattamis A, Apostolakou F, Boiu S, Bartzeliotou A, Tsoukas E, Papassotiriou I. Correlation of NT-proBNP levels and cardiac iron concentration in patients with transfusion-dependent thalassemia major. Blood Cells Mol Dis 2013; 50:20-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bcmd.2012.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Revised: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Tony S, Daar S, Elshinawy M, Al-Zadjaly S, Al-Khabori M, Wali Y. T2* MRI in regularly transfused children with thalassemia intermedia: serum ferritin does not reflect liver iron stores. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2012; 29:579-84. [PMID: 22839111 DOI: 10.3109/08880018.2012.708891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Nontransfused patients with thalassemia intermedia (TI) accumulate iron due to increased gastrointestinal absorption of iron. Recent studies using T2* MRI revealed that serum ferritin does not reflect the severity of iron overload in nontransfused TI patients. We evaluated the iron overload status in TI children on monthly transfusion. Based on serum ferritin levels, 11 such patients (mean age 13.18 ± 4.09 years), were classified into two groups, group 1 (six patients) and group 2 (five patients) with serum ferritin levels below and above 1000 ng/mL, respectively. T2* MRI assessments were done for evaluation of hepatic and cardiac iron status. Group 1 and group 2 had mean serum ferritin levels of 817.300 ± 244.690 ng/mL and 1983.80 ± 662.862 ng/mL, respectively (P = .003). T2* MRI showed comparable moderate to severe hepatic iron overload status in both. None of the patients had myocardial iron deposition. We conclude that serum ferritin does not reflect the hepatic iron overload status in our patients with TI on regular transfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surekha Tony
- Department of Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
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Musallam KM, Taher AT, Rachmilewitz EA. β-thalassemia intermedia: a clinical perspective. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2012; 2:a013482. [PMID: 22762026 PMCID: PMC3385943 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a013482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of the molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the disease process in patients with β-thalassemia intermedia has substantially increased over the past decade. Earlier studies observed that patients with β-thalassemia intermedia experience a clinical-complications profile that is different from that in patients with β-thalassemia major. In this article, a variety of clinical morbidities are explored, and their associations with the underlying disease pathophysiology and risk factors are examined. These involve several organs and organ systems including the vasculature, heart, liver, endocrine glands, bone, and the extramedullary hematopoietic system. The effects of some therapeutic interventions on the development of clinical complications are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled M Musallam
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, IRCCS Cà Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, 20122 Milan, Italy
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Karimi M, Musallam KM, Cappellini MD, Daar S, El-Beshlawy A, Belhoul K, Saned MS, Temraz S, Koussa S, Taher AT. Risk factors for pulmonary hypertension in patients with β thalassemia intermedia. Eur J Intern Med 2011; 22:607-10. [PMID: 22075289 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2011.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2011] [Revised: 05/20/2011] [Accepted: 05/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary hypertension (PHT) is a common yet poorly understood complication of β thalassemia intermedia (TI). METHODS We herein evaluated risk factors for PHT in TI, through comparing 64 TI patients with evidence of PHT by symptomatology and echocardiography (Group I) to age- and sex-matched TI patients without PHT (Group II). Retrieved data included demographics, laboratory parameters, clinical characteristics, and received treatments that may influence PHT development; and reflected the period prior to PHT occurrence in Group I. RESULTS The mean age of Group I patients at development of PHT was 37.3±10.6years; with 44% being males. Among studied parameters, Group I patients were more likely to be splenectomized (4.9-times), transfusion-naive (3.5-times); hydroxyurea-naive (2.6-times), or iron chelation-naive (2.3-times); and have nucleated red blood cell count ≥300×10(6)/l (2.59-times) or a previous history of thromboembolic events (3.69-times). CONCLUSION TI patients who eventually develop PHT may be identified early on by being splenectomized, having high nucleated red blood cell counts and a previous history of thromboembolism. Prospective clinical trials that evaluate the efficacy, safety, and cost effectiveness of transfusion, iron chelation, and hydroxyurea therapy in preventing PHT in TI are invited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Karimi
- Department of Pediatrics, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Amoozgar H, Farhani N, Khodadadi N, Karimi M, Cheriki S. Comparative study of pulmonary circulation and myocardial function in patients with β-thalassemia intermedia with and without hydroxyurea, a case-control study. Eur J Haematol 2011; 87:61-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0609.2011.01620.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Welisch E, Norozi K, Rauch R. N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide level as a screening tool for cardiac involvement in paediatric diseases of extracardiac origin. Clin Res Cardiol 2011; 100:723-30. [PMID: 21487941 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-011-0317-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2010] [Accepted: 03/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum concentrations of N-terminal natriuretic pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) correlate well with the severity of cardiac disease in children and adults. There are also paediatric illnesses of extracardiac origin that may cause deterioration of the cardiac function in some patients (pts). A high NP level can signify a concomitant cardiac involvement in respiratory distress, or secondary to a systemic disease. OBJECTIVE To assess the potential of NT-proBNP as a screening tool for cardiac involvement in paediatric diseases of extracardiac origin. METHODS A literature search was performed in PubMed for the relevant studies with the subject brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and NT-proBNP from 1995 to 2010 with stress on characteristics of the natriuretic peptides, paediatric reference values and systemic paediatric diseases with potential influence on the myocardial performance. The main focus has been NT-proBNP being the most stable NP and correlating well with BNP. RESULTS Most studies agree that a high NT-proBNP level indicates cardiac dysfunction in different systemic diseases such as thalassemia and cystic fibrosis or in pts after chemotherapy. In special clinical scenarios as sepsis or respiratory distress, NT-proBNP helps to narrow down the differential diagnosis or can be used for risk stratification. CONCLUSION NT-proBNP can serve as a screening tool in various primarily non-cardiac paediatric diseases. Together with the clinical picture, a high level suggests further assessment by a paediatric cardiologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Welisch
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital, London Health Science Centre, University of Western Ontario, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada.
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Saad GSA, Musallam KM, Taher AT. The surgeon and the patient with β-thalassaemia intermedia. Br J Surg 2011; 98:751-60. [DOI: 10.1002/bjs.7533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Unlike patients with β-thalassaemia major, where lifelong transfusion and iron chelation therapy are necessary for survival, patients with β-thalassaemia intermedia (TI) generally have a milder course and anaemia. The underlying pathophysiology of the disease still allows several complications to manifest. Surgical management during the course of the disease is common but relevant data from the literature have never been reviewed constructively. This aim of this review was to highlight this clinical entity to the surgeon, and ensure optimal and timely intervention.
Methods
The review was based on potentially relevant studies identified from an electronic search of MEDLINE and PubMed databases. There were no language or publication year restrictions. References in published articles were also reviewed.
Results
Surgical intervention is often essential to ensure optimal control of the associated morbidity in TI. Several general considerations are necessary before surgical intervention with regard to anaemia, cardiovascular disease, thromboembolic events and the effects of iron overload. Splenectomy, cholecystectomy, leg ulcers, fractures and extramedullary pseudotumours are the most commonly encountered surgical problems related to TI.
Conclusion
Awareness of TI and its associated morbidity is important so that appropriate preoperative care can occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- G S Abi Saad
- Department of Surgery, American University of Beirut Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - K M Musallam
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - A T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
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Amoozgar H, Farhani N, Karimi M. Early echocardiographic findings in β-thalassemia intermedia patients using standard and tissue Doppler methods. Pediatr Cardiol 2011; 32:154-9. [PMID: 21082174 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-010-9834-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2010] [Accepted: 11/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Heart complications are among the serious problems of patients with β-thalassemia intermedia. This study aimed to evaluate myocardial function in these patients. Clinical parameters and both standard Doppler and pulsed Doppler tissue imaging parameters were compared in 51 β-thalassemia intermedia patients (mean age, 17.05 ± 5.8 years) and 20 normal subjects (mean age, 17.81 ± 7.35 years, p = 0.98). In 11 patients (21.5%), pulmonary artery hypertension was detected. M-mode echocardiographic findings such as ejection fraction and fractional shortening did not show statistically significant changes (p > 0.005). Pulsed Doppler showed a significant difference in the early (E) to late diastolic (A) velocity ratio of the tricuspid and mitral valve between the patients and the control subjects (p < 0.05). In the pulsed tissue Doppler study, the peak systolic velocity of the septum (Ss), the peak atrial velocity of the septum (Aas), the peak systolic velocity of the tricuspid annulus (St), the peak early diastolic velocity of the tricuspid annulus (Eat), and the peak late diastolic velocity of the tricuspid annulus (Aat) were increased significantly (p < 0.05). The pulse tissue Doppler of the lateral mitral annulus did not change significantly (p > 0.005). The peak systolic velocity of the posterior wall and the peak late diastolic velocity of the anterior wall changed significantly (p < 0.05). This study showed that β-thalassemia intermedia patients with normal M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiography had statistically significant changes in pulsed Doppler and pulsed tissue Doppler imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Amoozgar
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, 7193711351, Shiraz, Iran.
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Murphy CJ, Oudit GY. Iron-Overload Cardiomyopathy: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. J Card Fail 2010; 16:888-900. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2010.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2010] [Revised: 05/11/2010] [Accepted: 05/11/2010] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Taher AT, Musallam KM, Karimi M, El-Beshlawy A, Belhoul K, Daar S, Saned M, Cesaretti C, Cappellini MD. Splenectomy and thrombosis: the case of thalassemia intermedia. J Thromb Haemost 2010; 8:2152-8. [PMID: 20546125 DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2010.03940.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypercoagulability in splenectomized patients with thalassemia intermedia (TI) has been extensively evaluated. However, clinical and laboratory characteristics of patients who eventually develop overt thromboembolic events (TEE) are poorly studied. PATIENTS/METHODS Three Groups of TI patients (n=73 each) were retrospectively identified from a registry involving six centers across the Middle East and Italy: Group I, all splenectomized patients with a documented TEE; Group II, age- and sex-matched splenectomized patients without TEE; and Group III, age- and sex-matched non-splenectomized patients without TEE. Retrieved data included demographics, laboratory parameters, clinical complications, and received treatments that may influence TEE development, and reflected the period prior to TEE occurrence in Group I. RESULTS The mean age of Group I patients at development of TEE was 33.1±11.7years, with a male to female ratio of 33:40. TEE were predominantly venous (95%) while four patients (5%) had documented stroke. Among studied parameters, Group I patients were more likely to have a nucleated red blood cell (NRBC) count ≥300×10(6) L(-1) , a platelet count ≥500×10(9) L(-1) and evidence of pulmonary hypertension (PHT), or be transfusion naïve. The median time to thrombosis following splenectomy was 8years. Patients with an NRBC count ≥300×10(6) L(-1) , a platelet count ≥500×10(9) L(-1) , or who were transfusion naive also had a shorter time to thrombosis following splenectomy. CONCLUSION Splenectomized TI patients who will develop TEE may be identified early on by high NRBC and platelet counts, evidence of PHT, and transfusion naivety.
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Affiliation(s)
- A T Taher
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology-Oncology Division, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
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Cappellini MD, Musallam KM, Taher AT. Insight onto the pathophysiology and clinical complications of thalassemia intermedia. Hemoglobin 2010; 33 Suppl 1:S145-59. [PMID: 20001620 DOI: 10.3109/03630260903351528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Our understanding of the molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the disease process in patients with thalassemia intermedia (TI) has substantially increased over the past decade. TI encompasses a wide clinical spectrum of beta-thalassemia phenotypes. Some TI patients are asymptomatic until adult life, whereas others are symptomatic from as young as 2 years. A number of clinical complications commonly associated with TI are rarely seen in thalassemia major, including extramedullary hematopoiesis, leg ulcers, gallstones, thrombosis, and pulmonary hypertension. There are a number of options currently available for managing patients with TI, including transfusion therapy, iron chelation therapy, modulation of fetal hemoglobin production, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, at present, there are no clear guidelines for an orchestrated optimal treatment plan.
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Screening for cardiomyopathy in muscular dystrophy with tissue doppler imaging. Indian J Pediatr 2010; 77:523-8. [PMID: 20401707 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-010-0060-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2007] [Accepted: 08/26/2009] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study role of Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) in identification of cardiomyopathy before development of ventricular dysfunction. METHODS Twenty-five patients with Duchenne's (DMD) and 10 with Becker's (BMD) muscular dystrophy along with 20 controls were evaluated using TDI. RESULTS Pulse Tissue Doppler signals of the lateral left ventricle wall (lateral mitral annulus) revealed reduced systolic velocities in the DMD patients (mean +/- SD: 7.8 +/- 1.1 cm/sec vs. 8.6 +/- 1.1 cm/sec in controls) in patients of DMD. 60% of the non ambulatory DMD (ejection fraction 45+/-9%) patients had mild LV dysfunction and reduced systolic velocities (6.96 +/- 1.7 cm/sec, p<0.05 vs controls). The ambulatory DMD patients also had reduced systolic velocities (7.8 +/- 1.1 cm/sec) though ejection fraction was normal. Reduced tissue Doppler systolic velocities in the ambulatory DMD patients with normal conventional echocardiography would suggest that perhaps some of these patients (20% had velocities less than Mean - 2 SD of controls) have early myocardial dysfunction (picked up only as abnormal myocardial velocities). CONCLUSIONS TDI picked up systolic dysfunction of the lateral wall in DMD even when overall LV function was normal conventional echocardiography. Tissue Doppler imaging is a useful technique to pick up early ventricular dysfunction and should be evaluated in larger studies and also with other techniques like magnetic resonance imaging.
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Overview on practices in thalassemia intermedia management aiming for lowering complication rates across a region of endemicity: the OPTIMAL CARE study. Blood 2009; 115:1886-92. [PMID: 20032507 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2009-09-243154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 264] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in understanding the pathophysiologic mechanisms behind the thalassemia intermedia (TI) phenotype, data on the effects of treatment are deficient. To provide such data, we evaluated 584 TI patients for the associations between patient and disease characteristics, treatment received, and the rate of complications. The most common disease-related complications were osteoporosis, extramedullary hematopoeisis (EMH), hypogonadism, and cholelithiasis, followed by thrombosis, pulmonary hypertension (PHT), abnormal liver function, and leg ulcers. Hypothyroidism, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus were less frequently observed. On multivariate analysis, older age and splenectomy were independently associated with an increased risk of most disease-related complications. Transfusion therapy was protective for thrombosis, EMH, PHT, heart failure, cholelithiasis, and leg ulcers. However, transfusion therapy was associated with an increased risk of endocrinopathy. Iron chelation therapy was in turn protective for endocrinopathy and PHT. Hydroxyurea treatment was associated with an increased risk of hypogonadism yet was protective for EMH, PHT, leg ulcers, hypothyroidism, and osteoporosis. Attention should be paid to the impact of age on complications in TI, and the beneficial role of splenectomy deserves revisiting. This study provides evidence that calls for prospective evaluation of the roles of transfusion, iron chelation, and hydroxyurea therapy in TI patients.
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Taher A, Hershko C, Cappellini MD. Iron overload in thalassaemia intermedia: reassessment of iron chelation strategies. Br J Haematol 2009; 147:634-40. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2141.2009.07848.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Thalassaemia intermedia: an update. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2009; 1:e2009004. [PMID: 21415986 PMCID: PMC3033165 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2009.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2009] [Accepted: 08/19/2009] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the disease process in patients with thalassaemia intermedia (TI) has substantially increased over the past decade. TI encompasses a wide clinical spectrum of beta-thalassaemia phenotypes. Some TI patients are asymptomatic until adult life, whereas others are symptomatic from as young as 2 years of age. A number of clinical complications commonly associated with TI are rarely seen in thalassaemia major, including extramedullary hematopoiesis, leg ulcers, gallstones, thrombosis and pulmonary hypertension. There are a number of options currently available for managing patients with TI, including transfusion therapy, iron chelation therapy, modulation of foetal haemoglobin production and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, at present, there are no clear guidelines for an orchestrated optimal treatment plan.
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