Aetiology, diagnosis and treatment of thalassemia-associated osteoporosis of the adult.

Aldo Carnevale, Irene Gagliardi, Maria Rosaria Ambrosio, Maria Chiara Zatelli, Camilla Alice Cattaneo

Journal: Journal of endocrinological investigation 2025;48(4):799-815

PMID: 39760968

Abstract

AIM

This review aims to overview factors contributing to TAO development and addresses the targeted diagnostic work-up and treatment management in adult thalassemic patients.

RESULTS

Osteoporosis management in Thalassemia is challenging because several factors contributing to its pathogenesis should be considered and controlled starting from child- hood. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial. Evidence concerning the efficacy of available anti-osteoporosis drugs in thalassemic patients is scarce. In this scenario, clinical experience and center resources often guide the treatment choice. More efforts should be made to share knowledge in this field in order to indicate specific treatment strategies for TAO management.

METHODS

We performed a literature search in Pubmed from 1992 to March 2024 using the words Thalassemia and: osteoporosis, Bisphosphonates, Denosumab, Teriparatide, Romosozumab, hormone replacement therapy, growth hormone, hypogonadism, calcium, vitamin D, bone disease, sarcopenia. The search was limited to English literature including original studies, reviews, meta-analyses, case reports.

Address: Section of Endocrinology, Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy. [email protected].; Section of Endocrinology, Geriatrics and Internal Medicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.; Service d'Endocrinologie, Diabétologie et Nutrition, Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, l'institut du thorax, Nantes, F-44000, France.; Department of Translational Medicine - Section of Radiology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.

DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02503-2

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https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40618-0...

MeSH Terms: Humans, Osteoporosis, Thalassemia, Adult, Bone Density Conservation Agents