The effect of iron overload on pulmonary function tests in children with thalassemia major

Abstract

Objective The aim was to determine pulmonary function abnormalities in children with thalassemia major (TM) and assess the relation between these abnormalities and iron overload. Introduction Regular blood transfusion program is among the most important factors that help in improving the survival of patients with TM; however, it leads to iron deposition in many organs such as lung. Most studied concerned about effect of iron on lung functions, revealed abnormalities, but limited data were observed. Patients and methods This cross-sectional study had included 50 children aged between 6 and 18 years (34 males and 16 females) with TM. All included children were subjected to full clinical examination and laboratory investigations including complete blood counts and serum ferritin. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were assessed in all included children using spirometry. Results Overall, 82% of the study group had abnormal pattern of PFTs. The majority of them were restrictive and of mild severity. Moreover, serum ferritin levels were found to be significantly higher in patients with thalassemia with abnormal PFTs (1456.65 ± 650.39) than patients with thalassemia with normal PFTs (744.34 ± 541.27) (P = 0.03). Conclusion Most children involved in the study had abnormal pattern of PFTs, and most frequent abnormality is restrictive pattern. In addition, there was a strong relationship between serum ferritin level and lung affection.