Endothelial dysfunction and inflammatory process in transfusion-dependent patients with beta-thalassemia major.

Background: Beta-thalassemia major is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We examined endothelial function and serum levels of inflammatory mediators in transfusion-dependent patients with beta-thalassemia major.

Methods: The study population consisted of 67 patients with homozygous beta-thalassemia major, (aged 24.