Iron overload after complement inhibitor treatment of Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria.

Abstract

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is an uncommon bone marrow disorder associated with hemolytic anemia, thrombosis, and cytopenias. Prior to 2007, treatment for PNH was limited and patients with PNH were treated with corticosteroids, anticoagulation for thrombosis, and iron supplementation for their chronic iron deficiency secondary to intravascular hemolysis(1). In fact a hallmark feature of PNH was iron deficiency and iron supplementation continues to be recommended as a treatment for the manifestations of PNH. With the introduction of C5 complement factor inhibitor treatments, potential long term manifestations of treatment need to be considered including the possibility of iron overload. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.