[Beta-thalassemia and pregnancy: 2 rare cases]

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Reproductive Medicine
• Genetics

Background:

• Beta-thalassemia, a group of inherited blood disorders, poses unique challenges during pregnancy.
• Management strategies for beta-thalassemia major during gestation require careful consideration due to potential complications.

Observation:

• Two distinct cases of beta-thalassemia during pregnancy were managed.
• The first patient had beta(0)/beta(+) thalassemia, requiring monthly red blood cell transfusions and deferoxamine therapy.
• The second patient, diagnosed with Cooley's disease, underwent successful bone marrow transplantation after experiencing deferoxamine allergy.

Findings:

• The first patient received weekly red blood cell transfusions throughout pregnancy, resulting in a healthy infant delivered via cesarean section.
• The second patient, post-bone marrow transplantation, had a normal full-term pregnancy culminating in the birth of a healthy child.

Implications:

• These cases demonstrate that successful pregnancy is achievable in women with severe beta-thalassemia.
• Intensified transfusion protocols and advanced treatments like bone marrow transplantation are crucial for managing beta-thalassemia in pregnant individuals.
• Further research into optimizing obstetric and hematologic care for beta-thalassemia patients is warranted.