Beta thalassaemia: a report of 20 children

Beta-thalassaemias have a wide variety of musculoskeletal system manifestations. In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to investigate the frequency and features of musculoskeletal system problems in children with beta-thalassaemia. A total of 20 beta thalassaemic patients with an average age of 13.8 years were enrolled in the study. In all patients studied, detailed history regarding musculoskeletal involvement was taken and locomotor examinations were performed. All patients underwent radiographic examination with standing anteroposterior and lateral X-rays of the spine. Two physicians blinded for the diagnosis used Cobb technique for determining the degree of scoliosis. In 12 of 20 patients (60%) locomotor system involvement was found. Most frequent complaints were arthralgia and low back pain in 30% and 25% of patients respectively. Scoliosis was detected radiologically in 40% of patients with a lateral curve of at least 5 degrees Cobb.