Serum Micronutrients and Antioxidant Levels in Children With Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia

Sanghamitra Ray1, Yachika Vashisht2, Diganta Saikia2

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, Geeta Colony, Delhi. Correspondence to: Dr Sanghamitra Ray, Department of Pediatrics, Chacha Nehru Bal Chikitsalaya, Geeta Colony, Delhi - 110 031. dr.raysanghamitra@gmail.com.

Indian Pediatrics
|October 12, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Children with transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) have significantly lower serum magnesium levels. This study assessed key micronutrient and antioxidant levels in TDT patients compared to healthy children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Hematology
  • Nutritional Biochemistry
  • Thalassemia Research

Background:

  • Transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) is a chronic hematological disorder requiring regular blood transfusions.
  • Management of TDT involves monitoring for complications, including potential micronutrient deficiencies.
  • Understanding mineral and antioxidant status is crucial for optimizing care in TDT patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate serum levels of zinc, copper, magnesium, and total antioxidant capacity in children with TDT.
  • To compare these levels with those of age-matched healthy children.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted involving children with TDT and healthy controls aged 3-14 years.
  • Serum zinc, copper, and magnesium were measured using a direct colorimetric method.
  • Total antioxidant capacity was determined using ELISA.

Main Results:

  • Serum magnesium levels were significantly lower in children with TDT compared to controls (P=0.015).
  • No significant differences were observed in serum zinc (P=0.496) or copper (P=0.133) levels between groups.
  • While not statistically different, 33% of TDT children had low serum zinc and 43% had high serum copper.

Conclusions:

  • Children with transfusion-dependent thalassemia exhibit significantly lower serum magnesium levels.
  • The findings highlight the importance of monitoring magnesium status in TDT management.
  • Further research may explore the clinical implications of altered zinc and copper levels in TDT.
Abstract

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