Cytomegalovirus infection in a splenectomized with ß-thalassemia major: immunocompetent or immunosuppressed?

We should possibly revise our knowledge about risk assessment of splenectomized individuals with ß-thalassemia major. Besides their known risk of certain bacterial infection, they might be also in a risk of life-threatening primary cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and end-, multi-organ disease, in the context of their immunosuppression status. Prompt and appropriate treatment initiation can be life saving.