Endocrine disorders in B thalassemia major in Kuwait

ABSTRACT

Forty children out of 130 beta-thalassaemia cases treated and followed up at the paediatric haematology and endocrine units of Al-Sabah Hospital were found to have various endocrine disorders. Their ages varied from 14 to 30 years; 60% of them were Kuwaitis, and others were of different nationalities. Short stature [45%], delayed and or arrested puberty [45%], hypoparathyroidism [15%], hypothyroidism [7.5%], Diabetes mellitus [5%], and multiple endocrine disorders [37.5%] were the main disorders seen in these patients. The pathogenesis, management and prevention of the disorders are discussed. Prompt diagnosis and management of endocrine dysfunctions are essential to improve the quality of life in these children