Redefining thalassemia as a hypercoagulable state

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2010 Aug:1202:231-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05548.x.

Abstract

As the life expectancy of beta-thalassemia patients has markedly improved over the last decade, several new complications are being recognized. The presence of a high incidence of thromboembolic events, mainly in thalassemia intermedia patients, has led to the identification of a hypercoagulable state in thalassemia. In this review, the molecular and cellular mechanisms leading to hypercoagulability in thalassemia are highlighted, and the current clinical experience is summarized. Recommendations for thrombosis prophylaxis are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Erythrocytes / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Splenectomy / adverse effects
  • Thalassemia / complications*
  • Thalassemia / physiopathology
  • Thrombophilia / etiology*
  • Thrombophilia / physiopathology