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Premawardhena A, Perera C, Wijethilaka MN, Wanasinghe SK, Rajakaruna RHMG, Samarasinghe RANKK, Williams S, Mettananda S. Efficacy and safety of deferoxamine, deferasirox and deferiprone triple iron chelator combination therapy for transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia with very high iron overload: a protocol for randomised controlled clinical trial. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e077342. [PMID: 38331857 PMCID: PMC10860110 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the improvement in medical management, many patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia die prematurely due to transfusion-related iron overload. As per the current guidelines, the optimal chelation of iron cannot be achieved in many patients, even with two iron chelators at their maximum therapeutic doses. Here, we evaluate the efficacy and safety of triple combination treatment with deferoxamine, deferasirox and deferiprone over dual combination of deferoxamine and deferasirox on iron chelation in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia with very high iron overload. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This is a single-centre, open-label, randomised, controlled clinical trial conducted at the Adult and Adolescent Thalassaemia Centre of Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka. Patients with haematologically and genetically confirmed transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia are enrolled and randomised into intervention or control groups. The intervention arm will receive a combination of oral deferasirox, oral deferiprone and subcutaneous deferoxamine for 6 months. The control arm will receive the combination of oral deferasirox and subcutaneous deferoxamine for 6 months. Reduction in iron overload, as measured by a reduction in the serum ferritin after completion of the treatment, will be the primary outcome measure. Reduction in liver and cardiac iron content as measured by T2* MRI and the side effect profile of trial medications are the secondary outcome measures. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval for the study has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya (Ref. P/06/02/2023). The trial results will be disseminated in scientific publications in reputed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER The trial is registered in the Sri Lanka Clinical Trials Registry (Ref: SLCTR/2023/010).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuja Premawardhena
- Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
- Department of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Chamodi Perera
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | | | | | - Senani Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Sachith Mettananda
- Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
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Angastiniotis M. Beta thalassemia: Looking to the future, addressing unmet needs and challenges. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2024; 1532:63-72. [PMID: 38217509 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.15097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Thalassemia management has reached new milestones, with new therapies promising the dawning of a new era. However, conventional and new approaches require accessibility, affordability, acceptability/adherence by patients, and medical expertise from healthcare providers. Current treatments still do not offer the expected duration and quality of life, and inequalities in patient care are almost a universal phenomenon. To understand the requirements to achieve improved care, including the adoption of new therapies, for the maximum number of the global patient population, it is necessary to recognize the weaknesses that are experienced in the present so that future corrective action can be taken. Deficits in service provision are due to poor political and financial support, lack of prioritization during resource rationing, and absence of epidemiological information for policy making. These system weaknesses require improved resource management and would benefit from patient support organizations, improved psychosocial support and patient welfare, and an increase in professional expertise through educational programs. Medical products and technology must also be made affordable and widely available, and the curative treatments and cheaper approaches to technology must be recognized as resource saving. Improvements in the access to innovative and quality care, and even a cure, require concerted actions by all stakeholders, including physicians and the patient community.
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3
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Karusheva Y, Petry CJ, Yasara N, Kottahachchi D, Premawardhena A, Barker P, Burling K, Sattar N, Welsh P, Mettananda S, O'Rahilly S. Association of GDF15 levels with body mass index and endocrine status in β-thalassaemia. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2023; 99:182-189. [PMID: 36806122 PMCID: PMC10952638 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE GDF15 has emerged as a stress-induced hormone, acting on the brain to reduce food intake and body weight while affecting neuroendocrine function. Very high GDF15 levels are found in thalassaemia, where growth, energy balance and neuroendocrine function are impaired. We examined the relationships between GDF15 and anthropometric measures and endocrine status in β-thalassaemia. DESIGN Cross sectional study. PATIENTS All β-thalassaemia patients attending the thalassaemia unit of Colombo North Teaching Hospital for blood transfusions. MEASUREMENTS Anthropometric data, appetite scores, circulating GDF15, IGF, thyroid and reproductive hormone levels in 103 β-thalassaemia patients were obtained. RESULTS GDF15 levels were markedly elevated in thalassaemia patients (24.2-fold with β-thalassaemia major compared with healthy controls). Among patients with β-thalassaemia major, the relationship between GDF15 and body mass index (BMI) was curvilinear with all individuals with GDF15 levels above 24,000 pg/mL having a BMI below 20 kg/m2 . After adjustment for BMI, age and Tanner stage, serum IGF1 concentrations correlated negatively with GDF15 in all thalassaemia patients (β = -.027, p = .02). We found a significant positive relationship between GDF15 and gonadotropin (in both sexes) and testosterone (in males). CONCLUSIONS GDF15 levels were markedly elevated in patients with β-thalassaemia and its association with BMI is consistent with the known effect of GDF15 to reduce body weight. The inverse association between GDF15 with IGF1 levels may reflect a neuroendocrine impact of GDF15 or an indirect effect via impaired nutritional state. The positive association with testosterone in males and gonadotropins in both sexes, was surprising and should prompt further GDF15 studies on the hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanislava Karusheva
- MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome‐MRC Institute of Metabolic ScienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research CentreCambridgeUK
| | - Clive J. Petry
- MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome‐MRC Institute of Metabolic ScienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research CentreCambridgeUK
| | - Nirmani Yasara
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of KelaniyaRagamaSri Lanka
| | - Dulani Kottahachchi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of KelaniyaRagamaSri Lanka
| | - Anuja Premawardhena
- Colombo North Teaching HospitalRagamaSri Lanka
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of KelaniyaRagamaSri Lanka
| | - Peter Barker
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research CentreCambridgeUK
- Core Biochemical Assay LaboratoryCambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCambridgeUK
| | - Keith Burling
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research CentreCambridgeUK
- Core Biochemical Assay LaboratoryCambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCambridgeUK
| | - Naveed Sattar
- University of Glasgow, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic HealthGlasgowUK
| | - Paul Welsh
- University of Glasgow, School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic HealthGlasgowUK
| | - Sachith Mettananda
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of KelaniyaRagamaSri Lanka
- Colombo North Teaching HospitalRagamaSri Lanka
| | - Stephen O'Rahilly
- MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome‐MRC Institute of Metabolic ScienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research CentreCambridgeUK
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Soteriades S, Angastiniotis M, Farmakis D, Eleftheriou A, Maggio A. The Need for Translational Epidemiology in Beta Thalassemia Syndromes: A Thalassemia International Federation Perspective. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am 2023; 37:261-272. [PMID: 36907602 DOI: 10.1016/j.hoc.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiology is the practical tool to provide information on which policy makers should base planning of services. Epidemiological data for thalassemia is based on inaccurate and often conflicting measurements. This study attempts to demonstrate with examples the sources of inaccuracy and confusion. The Thalassemia International Foundation (TIF) suggests that congenital disorders, for which increasing complications and premature death are avoidable through appropriate treatment and follow-up, should be given priority based on accurate data and patient registries. Moreover, only accurate information about this issue, especially for developing countries, will move national health resources in the right direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soterios Soteriades
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Aurelio Maggio
- Campus of Haematology Franco and Piera Cutino, AOR Villa Sofia-V, Cervello, Palermo, Italy.
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Samararathna R, Gunaratne AVC, Mettananda S. Knowledge and practices on childhood anaemia, thalassaemia and iron deficiency among mothers of children aged between 6 and 59 months in a suburban area of Sri Lanka. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2022; 41:59. [PMID: 36587235 PMCID: PMC9805672 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-022-00341-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood anaemia is one of the most common public health problems worldwide. Here, we aim to describe the knowledge and practices on childhood anaemia, thalassaemia and iron deficiency among mothers of children aged between 6 and 59 months in a suburban district of Sri Lanka. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional survey in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka from December 2020 to February 2021. One well-baby clinic each from four Medical Officer of Health areas in the district was selected using stratified random sampling. Mothers of all children aged between 6 and 59 months attending well-baby clinics were recruited until the sample size was achieved. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analysed using logistic regression. RESULTS A total of 392 mothers were recruited; 53% of their children were males. Only 33% of mothers had an accurate understanding of anaemia, while 71% and 28%, respectively, could name at least one symptom and two causes of anaemia; 12% could not name a single food rich in iron. Only 13% of mothers knew that thalassaemia is a cause of anaemia, and 14% had been screened for thalassaemia. Logistic regression analysis that examined for factors associated with higher knowledge of anaemia revealed that an accurate understanding of anaemia was associated with maternal age over 30 years (p < 0.05) and maternal education level beyond grade ten (p < 0.001). In contrast, higher knowledge of symptoms of anaemia was associated with maternal employment (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The knowledge of anaemia and awareness of thalassaemia among mothers was poor. Very few mothers were aware of iron-rich food and feed it to their children. Despite being located in a thalassaemia-endemic region, very few knew that thalassaemia is a cause of anaemia and have got themselves screened for thalassaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sachith Mettananda
- grid.470189.3Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka ,grid.45202.310000 0000 8631 5388Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Thalagolla Road, Ragama, 11010 Sri Lanka
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Redesigning New Policy Options for Thalassemia Prevention in Sri Lanka. THALASSEMIA REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/thalassrep12040018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Sri Lanka, a country with 22 million people, has nearly 2000 thalassemia patients with severe thalassemia, two-thirds of whom have beta thalassemia major (TM). The current prevention program based on promoting “safe marriages”, which has been in existence for over 15 years, has failed to reduce thalassemia major births. We set about to examine the cost-effectiveness of novel policy options for thalassemia prevention in Sri Lanka. Methods: The current cost for treatment of a thalassemia major patient (USD 2602/yr) was compared against the cost per reduction of single birth with three novel strategies, namely intensifying the screening in the current five districts combined with an education program (policy option 1), a nationwide screening program (policy option 2), and antenatal screening combined with the termination of pregnancy (policy option 3). The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of the different strategies was calculated. Results: The status quo was considered to reduce one TM birth whilst the new policy options were able to reduce births by 14, 35, and 48, respectively. The costs incurred for the program for a year for status quo and the three novel programs were USD 104,788, 173,884, 781,372, and 904,186 respectively. Cost per prevention of a thalassemia major birth was USD 87,324, 12,420, 22,324, and 20,084, respectively. The lifetime cost per treatment of a thalassemia major patient was USD 34,653. Conclusions: Given the current legal restriction on termination of pregnancy for fetal indications, policy option 2, an island-wide screening with mass education, is the most cost-effective and will be expected to deliver a substantial reduction in new births.
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Amarasingha AADS, Silva HJRL, Perera PS, Premawardhena AP. Anemia in Sri Lanka: A Literature Review. Hemoglobin 2022; 46:214-224. [PMID: 36000556 DOI: 10.1080/03630269.2022.2096460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Anemia is a global health problem. This paper reviews literature on the prevalence of anemia in Sri Lanka. We searched EBSCO (Elton Bryson Stephens Company), Cochrane Library, and Medline for articles on prevalence and molecular basis of anemia in Sri Lanka from January 2000 to May 2021. Forty articles were selected. Most of the studies were on prevalence of anemia among children and pregnant women. All the studies had restricted themselves to assess the contributing factors for anemia in limited age categories. Most articles had attempted to determine the overall prevalence of anemia and the contribution of iron deficiency to it. There were only a few studies on prevalence and molecular basis of hemoglobinopathies and even fewer on the prevalence of anemia of chronic disease. None of the studies had attempted to assess the national prevalence of red cell membranopathies and enzymopathies. The published data on prevalence of anemia in Sri Lanka are incomplete. This review emphasizes the value of a much broader survey on anemia covering all age categories including the elderly and conducting a national survey including anemia of chronic disease and on red cell membranopathies and enzymopathies in Sri Lanka.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Dinusha S Amarasingha
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka
| | - H J Ruwindi L Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - P Shiromi Perera
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Anuja P Premawardhena
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
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8
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Halim-Fikri BH, Lederer CW, Baig AA, Mat-Ghani SNA, Syed-Hassan SNRK, Yusof W, Abdul Rashid D, Azman NF, Fucharoen S, Panigoro R, Silao CLT, Viprakasit V, Jalil N, Mohd Yasin N, Bahar R, Selvaratnam V, Mohamad N, Nik Hassan NN, Esa E, Krause A, Robinson H, Hasler J, Stephanou C, Raja-Sabudin RZA, Elion J, El-Kamah G, Coviello D, Yusoff N, Abdul Latiff Z, Arnold C, Burn J, Kountouris P, Kleanthous M, Ramesar R, Zilfalil BA. Global Globin Network Consensus Paper: Classification and Stratified Roadmaps for Improved Thalassaemia Care and Prevention in 32 Countries. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12040552. [PMID: 35455667 PMCID: PMC9032232 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12040552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Global Globin Network (GGN) is a project-wide initiative of the Human Variome/Global Variome Project (HVP) focusing on haemoglobinopathies to build the capacity for genomic diagnosis, clinical services, and research in low- and middle-income countries. At present, there is no framework to evaluate the improvement of care, treatment, and prevention of thalassaemia and other haemoglobinopathies globally, despite thalassaemia being one of the most common monogenic diseases worldwide. Here, we propose a universally applicable system for evaluating and grouping countries based on qualitative indicators according to the quality of care, treatment, and prevention of haemoglobinopathies. We also apply this system to GGN countries as proof of principle. To this end, qualitative indicators were extracted from the IthaMaps database of the ITHANET portal, which allowed four groups of countries (A, B, C, and D) to be defined based on major qualitative indicators, supported by minor qualitative indicators for countries with limited resource settings and by the overall haemoglobinopathy carrier frequency for the target countries of immigration. The proposed rubrics and accumulative scores will help analyse the performance and improvement of care, treatment, and prevention of haemoglobinopathies in the GGN and beyond. Our proposed criteria complement future data collection from GGN countries to help monitor the quality of services for haemoglobinopathies, provide ongoing estimates for services and epidemiology in GGN countries, and note the contribution of the GGN to a local and global reduction of disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Hashim Halim-Fikri
- Malaysian Node of the Human Variome Project Secretariat, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (B.H.H.-F.); (S.-N.R.-K.S.-H.); (W.Y.)
| | - Carsten W. Lederer
- Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (C.W.L.); (C.S.); (P.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Atif Amin Baig
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu 20400, Terengganu, Malaysia;
| | - Siti Nor Assyuhada Mat-Ghani
- School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (S.N.A.M.-G.); (N.N.N.H.)
| | - Sharifah-Nany Rahayu-Karmilla Syed-Hassan
- Malaysian Node of the Human Variome Project Secretariat, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (B.H.H.-F.); (S.-N.R.-K.S.-H.); (W.Y.)
| | - Wardah Yusof
- Malaysian Node of the Human Variome Project Secretariat, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (B.H.H.-F.); (S.-N.R.-K.S.-H.); (W.Y.)
| | - Diana Abdul Rashid
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (D.A.R.); (N.F.A.); (N.M.)
| | - Nurul Fatihah Azman
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (D.A.R.); (N.F.A.); (N.M.)
| | - Suthat Fucharoen
- Thalassemia Research Centre, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhom Pathom 73170, Thailand;
| | - Ramdan Panigoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Medical Genetics Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 40161, Indonesia;
| | - Catherine Lynn T. Silao
- Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines, Manila 1000, Philippines;
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Vip Viprakasit
- Department of Paediatrics & Thalassaemia Centre, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand;
| | - Norunaluwar Jalil
- UKM Specialist Children’s Hospital, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Norafiza Mohd Yasin
- Haematology Unit, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, No. 1, Jalan Setia Murni U13/52, Seksyen U13, Bandar Setia Alam, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; (N.M.Y.); (E.E.)
| | - Rosnah Bahar
- Department of Haematology, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia;
| | - Veena Selvaratnam
- Hospital Ampang, Jalan Mewah Utara, Taman Pandan Mewah, Ampang Jaya 68000, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Norsarwany Mohamad
- Department of Paediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (D.A.R.); (N.F.A.); (N.M.)
| | - Nik Norliza Nik Hassan
- School of Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia; (S.N.A.M.-G.); (N.N.N.H.)
| | - Ezalia Esa
- Haematology Unit, Cancer Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, No. 1, Jalan Setia Murni U13/52, Seksyen U13, Bandar Setia Alam, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; (N.M.Y.); (E.E.)
| | - Amanda Krause
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of the Witwatersrand, Watkins Pitchford Building, NHLS Braamfontein, Cnr Hospital and De Korte St, Hillbrow, P.O. Box 1038, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa;
| | - Helen Robinson
- Nossal Institute for Global Health, MDDHS, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Julia Hasler
- Global Variome, Institute of Genetic Medicine, International Centre for Life, Central Parkway, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK;
| | - Coralea Stephanou
- Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (C.W.L.); (C.S.); (P.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Raja-Zahratul-Azma Raja-Sabudin
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Jacques Elion
- Medical School, Université Paris Diderot, 75018 Paris, France;
| | - Ghada El-Kamah
- Clinical Genetics Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo 12622, Egypt;
| | - Domenico Coviello
- Laboratorio di Genetica Umana, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Largo Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147 Genova, Italy;
| | - Narazah Yusoff
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, Kepala Batas 13200, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia;
| | - Zarina Abdul Latiff
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia;
| | - Chris Arnold
- BioGrid Australia, Hodgson Associates, 4 Hodgson St., Kew, Melbourne, VIC 3101, Australia;
| | - John Burn
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, International Centre for Life Times Square, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3BZ, UK;
| | - Petros Kountouris
- Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (C.W.L.); (C.S.); (P.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Marina Kleanthous
- Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia Department, The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, 6 Iroon Avenue, Ayios Dometios, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus; (C.W.L.); (C.S.); (P.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Raj Ramesar
- Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town City of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa;
| | - Bin Alwi Zilfalil
- Human Genome Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +60-9767-6531
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A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial of oral hydroxyurea for transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2752. [PMID: 35177777 PMCID: PMC8854735 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06774-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydroxyurea is an antimetabolite drug that induces fetal haemoglobin in sickle cell disease. However, its clinical usefulness in β-thalassaemia is unproven. We conducted a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of hydroxyurea in transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. Sixty patients were assigned 1:1 to oral hydroxyurea 10–20 mg/kg/day or placebo for 6 months by stratified block randomisation. Hydroxyurea treatment did not alter the blood transfusion volume overall. However, a significantly higher proportion of patients on hydroxyurea showed increases in fetal haemoglobin percentage (89% vs. 59%; p < 0.05) and reductions in erythropoietic stress as measured by soluble transferrin receptor concentration (79% vs. 40%; p < 0.05). Based on fetal haemoglobin induction (> 1.5%), 44% of patients were identified as hydroxyurea-responders. Hydroxyurea-responders, required significantly lower blood volume (77 ± SD27ml/kg) compared to hydroxyurea-non-responders (108 ± SD24ml/kg; p < 0.01) and placebo-receivers (102 ± 28ml/kg; p < 0.05). Response to hydroxyurea was significantly higher in patients with HbE β-thalassaemia genotype (50% vs. 0%; p < 0.01) and Xmn1 polymorphism of the γ-globin gene (67% vs. 27%; p < 0.05). We conclude that oral hydroxyurea increased fetal haemoglobin percentage and reduced erythropoietic stress of ineffective erythropoiesis in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia. Hydroxyurea reduced the transfusion burden in approximately 40% of patients. Response to hydroxyurea was higher in patients with HbE β-thalassaemia genotype and Xmn1 polymorphism of the γ-globin gene.
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10
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Premawardhena AP, Ediriweera DS, Sabouhanian A, Allen A, Rees D, de Silva S, Perera W, Katugaha N, Arambepola M, Yamashita RC, Mettananda S, Jiffry N, Mehta V, Cader R, Bandara D, St Pierre T, Muraca G, Fisher C, Kirubarajan A, Khan S, Allen S, Lamabadusuriya SP, Weatherall DJ, Olivieri NF. Survival and complications in patients with haemoglobin E thalassaemia in Sri Lanka: a prospective, longitudinal cohort study. Lancet Glob Health 2022; 10:e134-e141. [PMID: 34843671 PMCID: PMC8672061 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(21)00446-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, haemoglobin E β-thalassaemia is the most common genotype of severe β-thalassaemia. The paucity of long-term data for this form of thalassaemia makes evidence-based management challenging. We did a long-term observational study to define factors associated with survival and complications in patients with haemoglobin E thalassaemia. METHODS In this prospective, longitudinal cohort study, we included all patients with haemoglobin E thalassaemia who attended the National Thalassaemia Centre in Kurunegala, Sri Lanka, between Jan 1, 1997, and Dec 31, 2001. Patients were assessed up to three times a year. Approaches to blood transfusions, splenectomy, and chelation therapy shifted during this period. Survival rates between groups were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival function estimate curves and Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify risk factors for mortality. FINDINGS 109 patients (54 [50%] male; 55 [50%] female) were recruited and followed up for a median of 18 years (IQR 14-20). Median age at recruitment was 13 years (range 8-21). 32 (29%) patients died during follow-up. Median survival in all patients was 49 years (95% CI 45-not reached). Median survival was worse among male patients (hazard ratio [HR] 2·51, 95% CI 1·16-5·43), patients with a history of serious infections (adjusted HR 8·49, 2·90-24·84), and those with higher estimated body iron burdens as estimated by serum ferritin concentration (adjusted HR 1·03, 1·01-1·06 per 100 units). Splenectomy, while not associated with statistically significant increases in the risks of death or serious infections, ultimately did not eliminate a requirement for scheduled transfusions in 42 (58%) of 73 patients. Haemoglobin concentration less than or equal to 4·5 g/dL (vs concentration >4·5 g/dL), serum ferritin concentration more than 1300 μg/L (vs concentration ≤1300 μg/L), and liver iron concentration more than 5 mg/g dry weight of liver (vs concentration ≤5 mg/g) were associated with poorer survival. INTERPRETATION Patients with haemoglobin E thalassaemia often had complications and shortened survival compared with that reported in high-resource countries for thalassaemia major and for thalassaemia intermedia not involving an allele for haemoglobin E. Approaches to management in this disorder remain uncertain and prospective studies should evaluate if altered transfusion regimens, with improved control of body iron, can improve survival. FUNDING Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council, US March of Dimes, Anthony Cerami and Ann Dunne Foundation for World Health, and Hemoglobal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Angela Allen
- Department of Molecular Haematology, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - David Rees
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Robert C Yamashita
- Department of Hematology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Liberal Studies, California State University, San Marcos, CA, USA
| | - Sachith Mettananda
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Nilam Jiffry
- Sirimavo Bandaranayake Specialized Children's Hospital, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Refai Cader
- Policy Analysis and Development Ministry of Health Sri Lanka, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Timothy St Pierre
- Department of Physics, School of Physics, Mathematics, and Computing, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Giulia Muraca
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christopher Fisher
- Department of Molecular Haematology, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Shawn Khan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen Allen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - David J Weatherall
- Department of Molecular Haematology, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Nancy F Olivieri
- Pediatrics, Medicine, and Public Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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11
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Premawardhena AP, Madushanka HDP. Thalassemia in Sri Lanka. Hemoglobin 2022; 46:71-73. [PMID: 35950586 DOI: 10.1080/03630269.2022.2025826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The island nation of Sri Lanka with 22 million people (in 2020) has an estimated 2000 patients with severe thalassemia. The majority have β-thalassemia (β-thal) major (β-TM), and Hb E (HBB: c.79G>A)/β-thal accounts for most of the remainder. Carrier rate for α+-thalassemia (α+-thal) trait is 9.9% and β-thal trait is 2.5%, with very similar rates in the three major ethnic groups (Sinhalese, Tamils and Moors). The distribution of thalassemia type reveals a remarkable variation, even in this small island, mirroring historical distribution of malaria. Even though healthcare is provided free by the state including blood transfusions and chelation, the overall survival of patients of β-TM is still not on a par with that of the Mediterranean countries. A national thalassemia prevention program was set up in 2007, but overall success of the exercise based essentially on dissuasion of marriages is not very promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuja P Premawardhena
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
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12
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Hossain MS, Mahbub Hasan M, Petrou M, Telfer P, Mosabbir AA. The parental perspective of thalassaemia in Bangladesh: lack of knowledge, regret, and barriers. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2021; 16:315. [PMID: 34271949 PMCID: PMC8283743 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-021-01947-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thalassaemia, a hereditary haemoglobin disorder, is a major public health concern in some parts of the world. Although Bangladesh is in the world's thalassaemia belt, the information on this disease is scarce. Additionally, the awareness of this life threatening, but potentially preventable disease is surprisingly poor. However, mass awareness is pivotal for the development of an effective preventive strategy. In this context, the understanding of parental perspectives is essential to grasp the magnitude of the problem. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the parental knowledge gaps and perceptions regarding thalassemia, the barriers confronted by the parents for caring for their thalassaemic children and their attitude to prenatal screening and prenatal diagnosis. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2018 and December 2018 at a dedicated thalassemia hospital located in Dhaka. A structured questionnaire was used for face-to-face interviews with parents of thalassaemic children. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. RESULTS Of 365 respondents, nearly all respondents (97%) had not heard about the term, 'thalassemia' before the disease was diagnosed in their children; all (100%) were unscreened for carrier status prior to marriage. Mean knowledge scores were significantly higher in respondents with higher income and education. Most respondents (~ 91%) had a guilty feeling for not undergoing premarital screening. Only around 36% of them had heard about prenatal diagnosis. Approximately 25% participants would consider prenatal diagnosis in a future pregnancy, while 70% of them were unsure and only ~ 5% would decline prenatal diagnosis. Only 9.3% mothers had prenatal diagnosis in a previous pregnancy. Nearly 80% of the parents faced difficulty for obtaining blood donors regularly and a similar proportion (~ 81%) of them did not receive support from any organized blood clubs. More than 40% of the parents reported they felt socially stigmatized. CONCLUSION This study suggests poor parental knowledge regarding thalassaemia including prenatal diagnosis and the challenges faced while caring for their children. These findings would be of paramount importance in planning and devising effective prevention and intervention strategies in Bangladesh as well as other countries with similar sociocultural setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sorowar Hossain
- Department of Emerging and Neglected Diseases, Biomedical Research Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, Independent University, Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
| | - Md Mahbub Hasan
- Department of Emerging and Neglected Diseases, Biomedical Research Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, 4331, Bangladesh
| | - Mary Petrou
- Institute of Women's Health , University College London, London, UK
| | - Paul Telfer
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Abdullah Al Mosabbir
- Department of Emerging and Neglected Diseases, Biomedical Research Foundation, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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13
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Allen A, Perera S, Mettananda S, Rodrigo R, Perera L, Darshana T, Moggach F, Jackson Crawford A, Heirene L, Fisher C, Olivieri N, Rees D, Premawardhena A, Allen S. Oxidative status in the β-thalassemia syndromes in Sri Lanka; a cross-sectional survey. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 166:337-347. [PMID: 33677065 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
In the β-thalassemias, oxidative stress, resulting from chronic hemolysis, globin chain imbalance, iron overload and depleted antioxidant defences, likely contributes to cell death, organ damage, anemia, hypoxia and inflammation. We assessed variations in these parameters in β-thalassemia syndromes in Sri Lanka. Between November 2017 and June 2018, we assessed children and adults attending two thalassemia centres in Sri Lanka: 59 patients with HbE β-thalassemia, 50 β-thalassemia major, 40 β-thalassemia intermedia and 13 HbS β-thalassemia. Median age was 26.0 years (IQR 15.3-38.8), 101 (62.3%) were female and 152 (93.8%) of Sinhalese ethnicity. Methemoglobin, plasma hemoglobin, heme and ferritin were measured as sources of oxidants; plasma total antioxidant capacity, haptoglobin, hemopexin and vitamins C and E assessed antioxidant status; plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine assessed oxidative damage; hemoglobin, plasma erythropoietin and transferrin receptor assessed anemia and hypoxia and plasma interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein assessed inflammation. Fruit and vegetable intake was determined by dietary recall. Physical fitness was investigated using the 6-min walk test and measurement of handgrip strength. Oxidant sources were frequently increased and antioxidants depleted, with consequent oxidative damage, anemia, hypoxia and inflammation. Biomarkers were generally most abnormal in HbE β-thalassemia and least abnormal in β-thalassemia intermedia but also varied markedly between individuals with the same thalassemia syndrome. Oxidative stress and damage were also more severe in splenectomized patients and/or those receiving iron chelation therapy. Less than 15% of patients ate fresh fruits or raw vegetables frequently, and plasma vitamins C and E were deficient in 132/160 (82.5%) and 140/160 (87.5%) patients respectively. Overall, physical fitness was poor in all syndromes and was likely due to anemic hypoxia. Studies of antioxidant supplements to improve outcomes in patients with thalassemia should consider individual patient variation in oxidative status both between and within the thalassemia syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Allen
- Department of Molecular Haematology, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK; Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Shiromi Perera
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Sachith Mettananda
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Rexan Rodrigo
- Thalassemia Care Unit, North Colombo Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Lakshman Perera
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Thamal Darshana
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
| | - Fiona Moggach
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Macewen Building, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Castle Street, Glasgow, UK
| | - Anthony Jackson Crawford
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Grange University Hospital, Llanyravon, Cwmbran, Gwent, UK
| | - Lesley Heirene
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Grange University Hospital, Llanyravon, Cwmbran, Gwent, UK
| | - Christopher Fisher
- Department of Molecular Haematology, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Nancy Olivieri
- Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine and Public Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - David Rees
- Department of Paediatric Haematology, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Anuja Premawardhena
- Thalassemia Care Unit, North Colombo Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Stephen Allen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, UK
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14
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Darshana T, Bandara D, Nawarathne U, de Silva U, Costa Y, Pushpakumara K, Pathirage S, Basnayake S, Epa C, Dilrukshi P, Wijayawardena M, Anthony AA, Rodrigo R, Manamperi A, Smith F, Allen A, Menzel S, Rees D, Premawardhena A. Sickle cell disease in Sri Lanka: clinical and molecular basis and the unanswered questions about disease severity. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2020; 15:177. [PMID: 32631379 PMCID: PMC7339547 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-020-01458-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though case reports and limited case series of Sickle cell disease in Sri Lanka have been reported previously, no attempt has been made hitherto to undertake a comprehensive genotypic-phenotypic analysis of this "rare" group of patients. RESULTS All accessible Sickle cell disease patients, totaling 60, including, 51 Sickle β-thalassaemia and 9 homozygous sickle patients were enrolled from seven thalassaemia treatment centres between December 2016-March 2019. The majority of patients were of Sinhalese ethnicity (n = 52, 86.67%). Geographically, two prominent clusters were identified and the distribution of Sickle haemoglobin in the island contrasted markedly with the other haemoglobinopathies. 3/ 9 homozygous sickle patients and 3/ 51 Sickle β-thalassaemia patients were receiving regular transfusion. Joint pain was the commonest clinical symptom among all sickle cell disease patients (n = 39, 65.0%). Dactylitis was significantly more common in homozygous sickle patients compared with the Sickle β-thalassaemia groups (p 0.027). Two genetic backgrounds sickle mutation were identified namely, Arab Indian and Benin. Among the regulators of Foetal hemoglobin in Sickle patients of the present study rs1427407 G > T seemed to be the most prominent modifier, with a significant association with Foetal haemoglobin levels (p 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Overall, the clinical course of the Asian version of Sickle cell disease in Sri Lanka appears to be milder than that described in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamal Darshana
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.
| | - Dayananda Bandara
- National Thalassaemia Centre, Teaching Hospital, Kurunegala, Sri Lanka
| | - Upul Nawarathne
- Department of Pediatrics, Teaching Hospital, Kurunegala, Sri Lanka
| | - Udaya de Silva
- Thalassaemia Unit, Teaching Hospital, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Yasinta Costa
- Department of Haematology, Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Sumithra Pathirage
- Department of Pediatrics, District General Hospital, Hambantota, Sri Lanka
| | - Seuwandi Basnayake
- Department of Haematology, District General Hospital, Monaragala, Sri Lanka
| | - Chamila Epa
- Department of Haematology, Teaching Hospital, Batticaloa, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | - Angela A Anthony
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Eastern University, Batticaloa, Sri Lanka
| | - Rexan Rodrigo
- Thalassaemia Adult and Adolescent Care Centre, Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Aresha Manamperi
- Molecular Medicine Unit, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Frances Smith
- Molecular Pathology Department, Viapath at King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Angela Allen
- Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stephan Menzel
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Rayne Institute, King's College London, London, UK
| | - David Rees
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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15
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Mettananda S, Paranamana S, Fernando R, Suranjan M, Rodrigo R, Perera L, Vipulaguna T, Fernando P, Fernando M, Dayanath BKTP, Costa Y, Premawardhena A. Microcytic anemia in children: parallel screening for iron deficiency and thalassemia provides a useful opportunity for thalassemia prevention in low- and middle-income countries. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2020; 37:326-336. [PMID: 32072846 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2020.1725200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Microcytic anemia in children is commonly attributed to iron deficiency without attempting to find the cause. Inadequate investigations to exclude hemoglobinopathies lead to missed opportunities for identification of thalassemia carriers. Here we aim to describe the relative contribution of iron deficiency and thalassemia to microcytic anemia in children. This hospital-based prospective study was conducted at the Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka. All newly diagnosed patients with microcytic anemia were recruited and data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Full blood count, blood film, serum ferritin, c-reactive protein, quantification of hemoglobin sub-types and α-globin genotype were performed using 4 ml of venous blood. A total of 104 children (Male- 60.5%) were recruited. Iron deficiency was the cause for anemia in 49% whilst 16% and 10% had α- and β-thalassemia trait respectively. Seven (6.7%) children had co-existing iron deficiency and thalassemia trait while two coinherited α- and β-thalassemia trait. Children with β-thalassemia trait had significantly higher red cell count and lower mean corpuscular volume compared to children with iron deficiency. However, none of the red cell parameters were significantly different between children with α-thalassemia trait and iron deficiency. Iron deficiency contributes only to half of children with microcytic anemia; one-fourth had thalassemia trait. Co-existence of iron deficiency and thalassemia trait or co-inheritance of α- and β-thalassemia trait were found in 9%. Parallel investigation of children with microcytic anemia to diagnose iron deficiency and thalassemia provides an opportunity to identify thalassemia carriers which is beneficial for thalassemia prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachith Mettananda
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka.,Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | - Marius Suranjan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Rexan Rodrigo
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Lakshman Perera
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Anuja Premawardhena
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka.,Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
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16
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Mettananda S, Peiris R, Pathiraja H, Chandradasa M, Bandara D, de Silva U, Mettananda C, Premawardhena A. Psychological morbidity among children with transfusion dependent β-thalassaemia and their parents in Sri Lanka. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228733. [PMID: 32045443 PMCID: PMC7012414 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Thalassaemia is a chronic disease which requires lifelong treatment in a majority. Despite recent advances in the medical care, minimal attempts are made to improve psychological health in these patients. In this study, we aim to describe the psychological morbidity in patients with transfusion dependent β-thalassaemia and their mothers in Sri Lanka. Methods This case control study was conducted in the three largest thalassaemia centres of Sri Lanka. All patients with transfusion dependent β-thalassaemia aged 4–18 years were recruited as cases whilst a randomly selected group of children without chronic diseases were recruited as controls. Psychological morbidity of children was assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and depressive symptoms of mothers was assessed by the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Results 288 transfusion dependent β-thalassaemia patients and equal number of controls were recruited. Abnormal emotional, conduct, hyperactivity and peer relationship symptom scores were reported by 18%, 17%, 9% and 14% of patients with thalassaemia respectively. Prevalences of abnormal psychological symptom scores in all domains were significantly higher among patients compared to controls. Abnormal conduct symptoms were significantly more prevalent among patients with HbE β-thalassaemia and those with suboptimal pretransfusion haemoglobin levels, lower transfusion volumes, hypothyroidism and undernutrition. Short stature was associated with abnormal emotional and hyperactivity scores. Depressive symptoms were significantly higher among mothers of patients with thalassaemia. Higher depressive symptom scores in mothers were significantly associated with abnormal emotional, conduct and peer relationship symptom scores in children. Conclusions A higher proportion of patients with transfusion dependent β-thalassaemia had abnormal psychological symptom scores. Abnormal conduct symptoms were more prevalent among patients with HbE β-thalassaemia, those who were inadequately transfused and having hypothyroidism and undernutrition. Mothers of the children with transfusion dependent β-thalassaemia had significantly higher depressive symptoms which were significantly associated with psychological symptoms among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachith Mettananda
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka.,Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Ravindu Peiris
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Hashan Pathiraja
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Miyuru Chandradasa
- Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka.,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | - Chamila Mettananda
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Anuja Premawardhena
- Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
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17
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Al-Moshary M, Al-Mussaed E, Khan A. Prevalence of Transfusion Transmitted Infections and the Quality of Life in β-thalassemia Major Patients. Cureus 2019; 11:e6129. [PMID: 31886066 PMCID: PMC6903895 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.6129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in chronically transfused β-thalassemia major (TM) patients, and to assess their quality of life (QoL). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in three different thalassemia centers located in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from January to July 2019. These centers provide screened blood and essential medical care for thalassemia patients. These centers include the Fatimid Foundation, Hamza Foundation, and Rehman Medical Institute, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A total of 431 blood transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia patients registered at these centers were selected. QoL in β-TM patients was assessed by a newly developed instrument, the TranQoL questionnaire. For the data analysis procedure, Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences; version 22 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL) was used. Results A total of 431 patients were included in our study. The ages ranged from five years to 23 years with a mean age of 11.54 ± 3.6 years; 58.93% were male and the rest were female with a male to female ratio of 1.43:1. A total of 129 (29.93%) patients were infected by transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs). Hepatitis C virus (HCV) was found prevalent in 23.66%, hepatitis B virus (HBV) was found in 4.87%, and HIV was found prevalent in 1.39% cases. The results showed a high proportion of HCV in males 27.95% as compared to females 17.51% (p value = 0.31). Patients were divided into high (good) QoL score of >50 and low (poor) score of <50. In patients with hepatitis C, the QoL was poor in 90 (88.23%) patients and was good in only 12 (11.76%) patients (p value=0.01); in the hepatitis B group, it was good in only eight (38.09%) and poor in 13 (61.90%) patients (p-value 0.04), and for patients with HIV, it was poor in all six patients (p=0.001). Conclusion Our study concludes that transfusion-transmitted disease is very high and that HCV is the leading TTI followed by HBV and HIV. QoL in patients with TTIs was poor. The use of advanced technology in blood screening, voluntary donations, donor selection, and asepsis during blood transfusion is imperative to curtail the transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Al-Moshary
- Pathology, Princess Nourah Bint Abdul Rahman University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Eman Al-Mussaed
- Pathology, Princess Nourah Bint Abdul Rahman University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Adnan Khan
- Pediatrics, Rehman Medical Institute, Peshawar, PAK
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