Pulmonary thromboembolism in beta-thalassemia intermedia: are we aware of this complication?
We describe a case of pulmonary thromboembolism in a 61-year-old woman with beta-thalassemia intermedia and no other risk factors for thrombosis. Thromboembolism was documented by perfusion lung scan. We review the literature on this uncommon complication of thalassemia intermedia and discuss the pathogenesis and treatment options. A significant relationship between pulmonary thromboembolism and pulmonary hypertension in these patients was noted.
Taher
Ali
A
Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut-Medical Center, Lebanon. ataher@aub.edu.lb
Abou-Mourad
Yasser
Y
Abchee
Antoine
A
Zalouaa
Pierre
P
Shamseddine
Ali
A
D001798:Blood Proteins / Q000032:analysis; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006976:Hypertension, Pulmonary / Q000209:etiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D017086:beta-Thalassemia / Q000150:complications*
D001798:Blood Proteins