[Cardiac dysfunction in children with thalassemia major]

Evaluation of the cardiac function of seven patients with beta-thalassemia major was performed by continuous electrocardiography recording during a 24 hr period and during a short term exercise program. A reduction in left ventricular function was assessed by echocardiography and radiocardiography during resting and during exercise. Serious arrhythmias of various forms in the oldest patients (17 and 20 years) were observed during these tests. The younger patients were asymptomatic and their cardiac function tests showed no abnormality. In order to prevent transfusion related cardiac iron toxicity it would seem mandatory to motivate patients for better compliance while on chelation therapy.