Management of Liver Disease in Thalassemia: Main Drug Targets for a Correct Therapy

Title: Management of Liver Disease in Thalassemia: Main Drug Targets for a Correct Therapy

Volume: 5 Issue: 4

Author(s): G. C. D. Vecchio, A. Nigro, P. Giordano and D. De Mattia

Affiliation:

Keywords: Thalassemia, liver disease, iron overload, HCV infection

Abstract: Liver disease is the second cause of mortality in thalassemia major. We present a review on the hepatic damage in thalassemic patients aimed at a knowledge of current preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, useful to guide in clinical judgment and treatment decisions. Transfusion related iron overload and hepatitis are the causes of liver damage in thalassemic patients. We examined means of primary prevention, anti-hepatitis vaccinations, blood donors screening; diagnostic tests for secondary prevention (computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, super conducting quantum interference device and biopsy) were also discussed about. A survey of treatment methods and strategies ( chelation therapy, antiviral treatments and liver and bone marrow transplantation) follows.

Cite this article as:

Vecchio C. D. G., Nigro A., Giordano P. and De Mattia D., Management of Liver Disease in Thalassemia: Main Drug Targets for a Correct Therapy, Current Drug Targets - Immune, Endocrine & Metabolic Disorders 2005; 5 (4) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1568005310505040373