India
A 35-year-old male asked:
My son is a thalassemia intermedia. we are giving him transfusions from our relatives to avoid transfusion related deseases. what will be his life expectency.?
4 doctor answers • 6 doctors weighed in
Dr. Kerrie Pinkneyanswered
Palliative Care 29 years experience
Most near normal: In various types of β thalassemia, mortality and morbidity vary according to the severity of the disease and the quality of care provided. Severe cases of β thalassemia major are fatal if not treated. Heart failure due to severe anemia or iron overload is a common cause of death. Actually risk of disease is higher among transfusions from directed donors.
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5.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Mahmood Khichianswered
Pediatric Critical Care 33 years experience
Can be affected: There are complications of the disease and the treatment that affect the heart and other organs. However with good follow up and treatment, complications can be delayed or avoided.
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Dr. Prakash Bhoopalamanswered
Pediatrics 45 years experience
Mostly normal : Beta thalassemia intermedia is midway in severity between major and minor. Growth and development in children with this disorder is usually normal and most patients have a normal life span. However, they can have some facial bone deformity and large spleen. Transfusions ( with iron-chelating agents) may be used as a supportive therapy.
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Dr. James Ballanswered
Pediatric Hematology and Oncology 21 years experience
Maybe Shortened.: Depends on the frequency of transfusions. Over time (15-20 years, probably), monthly transfusions will lead to iron overload. This probably shortens life expectancy. It is likely that children who are transfused monthly starting in their preteen years, will have complications beginning in their late 30s or 40s. Thal- intermedia patients are not all transfused with the same frequency.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.5k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 28, 2016
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