Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23) and Klotho Protein in Beta-Thalassemia.

Derangements in phosphate and calcium homeostasis are common in patients with beta-thalassemia. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is among the main hormones regulating phosphate levels, while several studies underline an interplay between iron (Fe) and FGF23. Herein, we investigated, for the first time, the serum intact molecule (iFGF23) and the carboxyl-terminal fragment (C-FGF23) and Klotho levels simultaneously in patients with beta-thalassemia major receiving iron chelation regimens in comparison to healthy control subjects.

A contemporary therapeutic approach to bone disease in beta-thalassemia - a review.

Homozygous beta-thalassemia represents a serious hemoglobinopathy, in which an amazing prolongation in the survival rate of patients has been achieved over recent decades. A result of this otherwise positive evolution is the fact that bone problems have become a major issue in this group of patients. Through an in-depth review of the related literature, the purpose of this study is to present and comment on the totality of the data that have been published to date pertaining to the prevention and treatment of thalassemia bone-disease, focusing on: the contribution of diet and lifestyle, the treatment of hematologic disease and its complications, the management of hypercalciuria, the role of vitamins and minerals and the implementation of anti-osteoporosis medical regimen.

Vitamin D deficiency in a patient with HDR syndrome.

The case of a patient with clinical symptoms, laboratory and imaging findings of hypoparathyroidism, sensorineural deafness, renal dysplasia HDR, or Barakat syndrome (hypoparathyroidism, deafness, renal dysplasia), and vitamin D deficiency, is presented. A Caucasian man aged 51 years with a history of chronic hypocalcaemia since childhood, was admitted with hypertonia of the body and extremities, and loss of consciousness. On admission, he was found to have severe hypocalcaemia, hyperphosphataemia, severe hypoparathyroidism, low serum magnesium and mild renal insufficiency.