Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in thalassaemia

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Endocrinology
• Hematology

Background:

• Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder associated with various complications.
• Vitamin D deficiency is a common concern in pediatric populations, potentially impacting bone health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in children with thalassemia compared to healthy controls.
• To explore seasonal variations and potential malabsorption of vitamin D in thalassemic children.

Main Methods:

• Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were measured in 36 thalassemic children and 27 controls (aged 5-15 years).
• Blood samples were collected between April and October, with distinct winter and summer periods defined.
• Statistical comparison of vitamin D levels between the two groups was performed.

Main Results:

• Thalassemic children exhibited significantly lower serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels compared to controls.
• Both thalassemic children and controls demonstrated seasonal variations in vitamin D levels.
• Evidence of vitamin D malabsorption was identified in the thalassemic children.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in children with thalassemia.
• Malabsorption of vitamin D contributes to lower levels in thalassemic children.
• Vitamin D deficiency is a likely factor contributing to bone lesions observed in thalassemic children.