Transfusion hemosiderosis

Transfusion Hemosiderosis is a medical condition that results from the accumulation of iron in the body due to frequent blood transfusions. This condition is often seen in patients with chronic anemia who require regular blood transfusions as part of their treatment.

Causes

Transfusion hemosiderosis is caused by the repeated transfusion of red blood cells, which contain iron. The human body has no natural mechanism to excrete excess iron, so it accumulates in various organs, particularly the liver, heart, and endocrine glands.

Symptoms

The symptoms of transfusion hemosiderosis vary depending on the organ systems affected. Iron accumulation in the liver can lead to cirrhosis, while in the heart it can cause cardiomyopathy. In the endocrine glands, it can result in diabetes mellitus and other endocrine disorders.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of transfusion hemosiderosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to detect iron accumulation in the liver and heart. Blood tests can also reveal elevated levels of serum ferritin, a protein that stores iron.

Treatment

The primary treatment for transfusion hemosiderosis is iron chelation therapy, which uses medications to bind excess iron and remove it from the body. The most commonly used iron chelators are deferoxamine, deferiprone, and deferasirox.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for patients with transfusion hemosiderosis can be significantly improved. However, if left untreated, the condition can lead to serious complications and can be life-threatening.

See also

• Iron overload
• Hemochromatosis
• Thalassemia