Hypocalcaemia due to hypoparathyroidism in β-thalassemia major. A study of a new case

Tunis Med. 2011 Mar;89(3):302-4.

Abstract

Aim: To report a new case of hypoparathyroidism in a child with ß-thalassemia major

Case: We report a case of a 17-year-old Tunisian girl with transfusion-dependent thalassemia major presented with paresthesia and pubertal delay. Laboratory investigations showed hypocalcaemia and hyperphosphatemia. Parathyroid hormone level was low (2 ng/l, normal range: 12-72 ng/l) than expected for the degree of hypocalcaemia. Serum ferritin concentration was 1770ng/ml. The patient was started on oral daily calcium supplementation, Alfa calciferol and intensive iron chelation therapy. Follow-up after 6 and 12 months revealed normal Calcium and ECG showed QT interval within normal range.

Conclusion: Investigating calcium homeostasis at regular intervals and early management of any abnormality can preclude the occurrence of complications.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypocalcemia / etiology*
  • Hypoparathyroidism / complications*
  • beta-Thalassemia / complications*