Bone density in the Asian thalassaemic population: a cross-sectional review

As survival improves in β-thalassaemia, osteoporosis is emerging as a significant problem. This study examines bone mineral density (BMD) of thalassaemic patients of Asian origin (age range 9.5-24 y) to evaluate the extent of problems in this group and identify potential risk factors. Eleven patients were scanned using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. BMD z -scores and the bone mineral apparent density (BMAD) z -scores were calculated, to correct for short stature. All but three patients had lumbar spine BMD and BMAD z -scores below the mean. Three patients had BMAD z -scores more than 2.5 standard deviations below the mean. A negative correlation between age and BMAD was seen, as was an association between endocrine disorders and decreased bone density.

Conclusion: The data confirm significant reductions in BMD in the Asian thalassaemic population, even after correcting for body size. Further research is needed to identify risk factors and means of prevention.