Determination of osteoporosis frequency among the thalassemia major patients

Abstract

Objective: Thalassemia major is the heaviest form of the thalassemias. Anemia, hepatosplenomegaly, spinal deformities and osteoporosis can be seen in the patients with thalassemia major. Our aim is to detect the frequency of osteoporosis among the thalassemia major patients.

Methods: Patients with diagnosis of thalassemia major were included in the study. Bone mineral density (BMD) scores (T-score and Z-score) less than -2.5 were accepted as osteoporosis and the scores between -1.5 and -2.5 were accepted as osteopenia. Patients were asked if they had any treatment for bone disorders.

Results: Total 25 patients with thalasemia major (14 men, 11 women) were included to study. Patients average age was 22.0± 0.90 years. According to BMD scores 16 of our patients had osteoporosis where as 9 patients had osteopenia. None of the patients were screened for osteoporosis and also none of them was taken any supportive bone treatment.

Conclusions: Patients with thalasemia major should be screened for osteoporosis which will affect their further life and quality of life and appropriate medications should be given at early stages.