[Chronic pulmonary thromboembolism revealing beta-thalassemia intermedia after splenectomy].

Introduction: The clinical expression of beta-thalassemia intermedia is variable and complications are more frequent than in the minor form. Thromboembolism risk increase after splenectomy. Few cases of the type of complications are reported.

Case Record: A man was admitted for beta-thalassemia intermedia with moderate chronic hemolysis anemia, complicated by chronic pulmonary thromboembolism and liver iron overload. Post-traumatic splenectomy probably increase the risk of this two complications. The patient's respiratory status improved following bosentan therapy without worsening his hepatopathy.

Conclusion: The present study also notes that thromboembolism complications can be an indicator of beta thalassemia and interrogate about the risk and the benefit of splenectomy in the treatment of beta-thalassemia intermedia.