Effects of thalidomide in transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia patients
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Date
2025-04
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Abstract
Backgrounds: Beta thalassemia constitutes inherited disorders of hemoglobin (Hb) synthesis caused by decreased synthesis of ?-globin chains and relative overproduction of ?-globin chains, causing cell membrane damage, which plays a key role in ineffective erythropoiesis and peripheral hemolysis. Thalidomide, a fetal Hb inducer, shows significant effects in increasing Hb as well as transfusion requirements. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of thalidomide in transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia patients. Methods: The prospective study was conducted at the Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology in collaboration with the Department of Hematology at Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital over 1 year, from November 2022 to October 2023. A sample size of 54 with selection criteria included individuals with diagnosed cases of beta thalassemia who were transfusion-dependent. Thalidomide was given at 5 mg/kg/day to all age groups, along with aspirin at 3 mg/kg/day coverage, in addition to conventional therapy. Then, four monthly follow-ups were done for 1 year. Result: Thalidomide leads to an increase in mean Hb levels from 7.06 ± 0.99 g/dL to 9.33 ± 1.16 g/dL (P < 0.001) after 1 year of treatment. The mean number of blood transfusions reduced from 10.98 ± 1.41/year to 10.31 ± 1.36 (P < 0.001) after 1 year of treatment. Conclusion: The study revealed that thalidomide treatment led to a substantial increase in Hb levels as well as a notable decrease in transfusion frequency.
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Keywords
Beta thalassemia, blood transfusion, hemoglobin, thalidomide.
Citation
Hossain Faria, Sharmeen Olia, Alam Md. Fakhrul, Shawon Md. Hasan Moshiur, Rowan Rowshan. Effects of thalidomide in transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia patients. Annals of International Medical and Dental Research. 2025 Apr; 11(2): 18-23