Hepcidin levels and iron status in beta-thalassemia major patients with hepatitis C virus infection.

Beta-thalassemia is an inherited anemia in which synthesis of the hemoglobin beta-chain is decreased. Clinical features of beta-thalassemia include variably severe anemia and iron overload due to increased intestinal iron absorption, which may result in damage to vital organs. The hepatic peptide; hepcidin is a key regulator of iron metabolism in mammals.