The Effect of Iron Overload on the Function of Some Endocrine Glands in β-Thalassemia Major Patients.

Abstract

             Thalassemia is a term that refers to a group of genetic disorders characterized by a defect in the synthesis of hemoglobin. It is sometimes called Mediterranean anemia. Many biochemical changes in the blood accompany this disease. In this research, some biochemical parameters were measured in thalassemic patients and compared with healthy control group. These parameters include Serum iron, TIBC, were measured Spectrophotometrically. Serum ferritin, Iisulin, GH, Testosterone, T3, T4, TSH, Cortisol, & Prolactine were measured by ELISA technique.

      The results have revealed a moderate state of iron overload in the thalassemia patients. Furthermore, there is a decrease in the level of serum cortisol, T4, prolactine and pancreatic beta cell function percentage (HOMA%B) in thalassemic while serum TSH level is higher in thalassemic patients in comparing with control group. The changes in the hormone levels in addition to serum insulin, insulin/glucose ratio, and HOMA%B are correlated well with the degree of iron store in the body, concluded mainly from high ferritin level.Insulin resistance parameters showed a significant negative relation with Insulin sensitivity index. There are significant increases in PCV, Hb, T3, and testosterone in male patients in comparing with female thalassemic patients.

      From the results of the present study, it can be concluded that iron overload state affects some endocrine glands secretions and there is a difference in the effects between male and females in prepubertal thalassemic patients. Therefore, it is important to estimate the endocrine function activity of thalassemia patients and treat the disorders if present as soon as possible