A Review of Endocrine Disorders in Thalassaemia

Abstract

Endocrine dysfunction in thalassaemia is amongst the most common complication and is principally attributed to excessive iron overload and suboptimal chelation. The prevalence is quite high particularly in multiethnic populations but determining the prevalence is often difficult due to the widespread heterogeneity of the population and timing of exposure to chelation therapy. Disturbances in growth, pubertal development, abnormal gonadal functions, impaired thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal functions, diabetes and disorderly bone growth are commonly encountered. Early detection and institution of appropriate transfusion regimen and chelation therapy and treatment of complications are the keys to managing this population including regular follow. In this article, we review the literature in relation to the various endocrine complications encountered in thalassaemia.