Keywords
growth failure
iron overload
chelation therapy
HAZ score
WAZ score
transfusion-dependent anemia
pediatric endocrinology
Pakistan
How to Cite
Abstract
Objective: To assess and compare growth parameters in children with transfusion-dependent thalassemia receiving regular chelation therapy versus those not receiving chelation.
Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.
Setting: Department of Pediatrics, Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital, Islamabad, conducted over from April 2025 to July 2025.
Subjects: Ninety-five children aged 5 to 12 years, diagnosed with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia.
Main Outcome Measures: Frequency of short stature, height-for-age Z (HAZ) scores, and weight-for-age Z (WAZ) scores.
Results: Children on regular chelation therapy demonstrated significantly better growth parameters. The frequency of short stature was lower in the chelation group compared to the non-chelation group. HAZ and WAZ scores were also significantly improved in the chelation group.
Conclusion: Regular iron chelation therapy is associated with improved growth outcomes in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients, underscoring the importance of adherence to treatment.