Skin disorders in children with thalassemia

Skin Disorders in Children with Thalassemia Introduction and Purpose: Thalassemias are hematological disorders inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, characterized by hypochromic microcytic anemia due to defective synthesis of one or more hemoglobin (Hb) chains. During the follow-up and treatment of beta thalassemia patients, many complications may develop. Complications related to iron accumulation in the bodies of these patients may also occur. This study aimed to evaluate the cutaneous findings of thalassemia patients followed and treated at the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Clinic of Dicle University, assess their relationship with serum ferritin levels, and identify factors that could facilitate the early detection of cutaneous findings that significantly impact patients' quality of life. Materials and Methods: Between November 1, 2023, and February 1, 2025, patients aged 12 months to 18 years who were diagnosed with Thalassemia Major and followed up at the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Clinic of Dicle University Faculty of Medicine Children's Hospital were included in the study. These patients were evaluated by a dermatologist, and their age, gender and laboratory findings were assessed. Results: This study included a total of 30 patients diagnosed with thalassemia, consisting of 17 males and 13 females. At least one dermatological finding was detected in 60% of the patients. The most commonly observed skin condition was xerosis (36.67%), followed by ephelides (13.33%), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (10%), and pityriasis alba (10%). No significant relationship was found between the presence of cutaneous findings and serum ferritin levels, hemoglobin levels, the type of iron chelator used, or gender (p > 0.05). Conclusion: In this study, common skin findings in patients with Beta Thalassemia Major were xerosis, ephelid, pityriasis alba, and it is important to periodically examine these patients for various skin disorders. Regular dermatological examinations of these patients can contribute significantly to improving the quality of life of the patients. It is necessary to increase compliance with iron chelation therapy in these patients, to include a dermatologist in the multidisciplinary management team and to perform regular dermatological examinations, and to improve individual patient management. Keywords: Cutaneous Findings, Ferritin, Thalassemia Major