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Retinal Complications in a Patient With Pediatric Thalassemia: A Case Report
Zineb Hilali1, Oumaima El Korno2, Saad Benchekroun Belabbes3
1Faculty of Medicine, Hôpital des Specialités de Rabat, Rabat, MAR.
Insights
Pediatric beta-thalassemia major can cause vision loss due to retinal issues. Early eye exams are crucial for detecting and preventing vision impairment in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Hematology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Beta-thalassemia major is a severe inherited blood disorder requiring chronic transfusions.
- Chronic anemia and iron overload are known complications of beta-thalassemia major management.
- Ocular complications in beta-thalassemia major are not widely reported but can impact vision.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old male with beta-thalassemia major presented with decreased visual acuity.
- Ophthalmologic examination revealed macular hemorrhage and vascular tortuosity.
- Fluorescein angiography showed retinal hypoperfusion without neovascularization.
Findings:
- Retinal abnormalities in this case were linked to chronic anemia and iron overload.
- Systemic factors associated with beta-thalassemia major can manifest as retinal changes.
- The findings underscore the potential for ocular involvement in pediatric beta-thalassemia major.
Implications:
- Routine ophthalmologic screening is vital for early detection of retinal abnormalities in beta-thalassemia major patients.
- Prompt diagnosis and management of retinal findings can prevent irreversible vision loss.
- This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to managing pediatric beta-thalassemia major.
Abstract:
The authors report a case of retinal involvement in a pediatric patient with beta-thalassemia major, highlighting the importance of an early ophthalmologic assessment. A 10-year-old male with a known diagnosis of beta-thalassemia major presented with complaints of decreased visual acuity. A comprehensive ophthalmologic examination, including fundus evaluation and fluorescein angiography, was performed. The fundoscopic examination revealed a macular hemorrhage and marked vascular tortuosity. Imaging supported the presence of retinal hypoperfusion without signs of neovascularization. The retinal findings were attributed to chronic anemia and iron overload related to repeated blood transfusions. Retinal abnormalities can occur in patients with beta-thalassemia major due to systemic factors such as anemia and iron toxicity. Early detection through routine ophthalmologic screening is essential to prevent potentially irreversible visual impairment in this patient population.
