Haemosiderosis, Liver and Renal Diseases among Thalassemia Patients in Sana'a City – Yemen
Abstract
Background: Thalassemia is a huge health problem that threatens the life of different population groups in the world particularly in developing countries, where the resources are limited. The management of thalassemia in Yemen is challenging due to insufficient treatments available. Aims: The objectives of the present study aimed to identify the haemosiderosis, liver, and renal diseases among thalassemia patients attending regularly to the Yemen Society for Thalassemia and Genetic Blood Disorders (YSTH) in Sana'a city, Yemen. Methods: This is a retrospective study conducted among data of 65 thalassemia patients aged between 2-43 years old attending YSTH during 2020. Data on haematological (blood transfusion), and biochemical [serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, urea, and ferritin levels] were gathered from medical files of patients with thalassemia in YSTH. Also, demographic data such as age and gender were obtained. Data were analyzed by using the SPSS program version. Result: A total of 65 patients with thalassemia were included in this study (40; 61.54% males and 25; 38.46% females). About 29 patients (44.61%) suffered from severe anemia and required regular blood transfusions. The age group of 2-5 years had the highest rate of thalassemia prevalence (64.62%). The direct bilirubin and total bilirubin levels were 78.5% and 61% increased among participating subjects. Similar, serum SGOT and ferritin levels were 50.8% and 89.2%, respectively, recorded among thalassemia patients. In addition, a significant correlation between age groups and concentration levels of total bilirubin, SGOT, and SGPT (P<0.05). Also, a significant correlation between serum ferritin levels and SGPT and SGOT (P<0.05). Conclusion: The high levels of serum ferritin found in this study among thalassemia patients give an overall bleak view. Therefore, it is an urgent need for follow-up protocols for the management of thalassemia with importance on blood transfusion and iron chelation practices.
