title: Transfusional iron overload and iron chelation therapy in thalassemia major and sickle cell disease.
abstract: Iron overload is an inevitable consequence of blood transfusions and is often accompanied by increased iron absorption from the gut. Chelation therapy is necessary to prevent the consequences of hemosiderosis. Three chelators, deferoxamine, deferiprone, and deferasirox, are presently available and a fourth is undergoing clinical trials. The efficacy of all 3 available chelators has been demonstrated. Also, many studies have shown the efficacy of the combination of deferoxamine plus deferiprone as an intensive treatment of severe iron overload. Alternating chelators can reduce adverse effects and improve compliance. Adherence to therapy is crucial for good results.
authors: Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Azienda Ospedale-Università Via Aldo Moro 8, Cona, Ferrara, Italy.
authors: Maria
authors: M
authors: Marsella
authors: Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Azienda Ospedale-Università Via Aldo Moro 8, Cona, Ferrara, Italy. Electronic address: c.borgna@unife.it.
authors: Caterina
authors: C
authors: Borgna-Pignatti
mesh_terms: D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy; D016026:Bone Marrow Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D007502:Iron Chelating Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D019190:Iron Overload / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology*; D065227:Transfusion Reaction; D017086:beta-Thalassemia / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D007502:Iron Chelating Agents
keywords: Deferasirox; Deferiprone; Deferoxamine; Iron chelation; Iron overload; Sickle cell disease; Thalassemia major