Abstract

MANAGEMENT OF BETA THALASSEMIA PATIENTS IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Vyshnavi Erroju*, Jyothi Rapaka, Shravani Kanakam, Naresh Puppala and Amith Kumar

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Abstract

Beta thalassemia is an Autosomal recessive disorder. In this disease patient mostly we can observe Growth retardation, Splenomegaly, Hepatomegaly, Infections etc. It passes from Parents, having genetic mutation in Beta globin chain of their Haemoglobin. In Thalassemia Major (It is severe condition) requires Blood transfusions, based on the patient needs transfusions were done. It increases the life-span of Children but Continuation of blood transfusions may leads to Elevated Iron concentration in blood (Serum Ferritin) which may cause Organ Damage due to Deposition of Iron in tissue. So, to prevent organ damage due to high levels of ferritin in blood, Iron Chelator was provided to Patients. This Study was conducted in Multispecialty Hospital in Karimnagar, Telangana to know the efficacy of Iron chelation therapy in Beta thalassaemia patients who receiving blood transfusions in Paediatric ward by using the well designated proforma to collect the information about them. In this study Iron chelator is given to patients based on their Serum Ferritin levels. Along with Iron chelator, Multivitamin supplements+ folic acid supplements + Hydroxyurea are given to improve quality of life. To prevent infections Vaccines were given. At the end of the study we observe that increase in number of blood transfusions with Iron Chelation therapy mostly does not increase serum ferritin. So, we conclude that iron chelator is effective in decrease in ferritin levels of Serum.

Keywords: Thalassemia, Blood transfusions, Serum Ferritin, Chelator.