Using LIBS as a diagnostic tool in pediatrics beta-thalassemia.

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Beta-thalassemia major is a prevalent inherited single-gene disorder.
• Patients with beta-thalassemia are susceptible to trace element imbalances.
• Monitoring these elements is crucial for managing the condition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate alterations in serum iron, copper, zinc, and calcium levels in beta-thalassemia major patients.
• To evaluate the efficacy of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) in detecting these trace element changes.
• To compare trace element profiles between beta-thalassemia major patients and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 40 beta-thalassemia major patients and 40 healthy controls (ages 12-18) was studied.
• Venous blood samples were analyzed using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS).
• Serum elemental intensities were quantified using Kestrel Spec software and analyzed with SPSS 25.

Main Results:

• Beta-thalassemia patients exhibited significantly higher serum iron (p<0.001) and copper (p<0.005) levels.
• Conversely, serum zinc (p<0.005) and calcium (p>0.005) levels were significantly lower in thalassemic patients.
• Thalassemic patients also showed significantly reduced body weight and height (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• LIBS is a safe and effective method for identifying trace element alterations in beta-thalassemia patients.
• Significant deviations in iron, copper, zinc, and calcium levels are characteristic of beta-thalassemia major.
• These findings highlight the utility of LIBS in the clinical management of beta-thalassemia.