# A Case Series on Beta Thalassemia Major With Secondary Diabetes Mellitus Due to Iron Overload and Other Complications

## TL;DR

This case series explores three patients with beta thalassemia who developed diabetes due to iron overload and were successfully treated with a multidisciplinary approach.

## Contribution

The study provides clinical insights into managing beta thalassemia patients with secondary diabetes through a multidisciplinary approach.

## Key findings

- Three patients with beta thalassemia major developed secondary diabetes due to iron overload.
- Multidisciplinary care involving hematology, endocrinology, and cardiology led to clinical stabilization.
- Early recognition of iron overload complications is crucial for optimizing outcomes in these patients.

## Abstract

Beta thalassemia major is an inherited hemoglobinopathy characterized by chronic hemolysis that requires lifelong blood transfusion therapy. With globalization and population migration, it has become a worldwide health concern. Inadequate transfusion therapy can result in complications such as stunted growth, jaundice, hepatosplenomegaly, bone deformities, and extramedullary hematopoiesis. Long-term transfusion treatment frequently leads to iron overload, predisposing patients to diabetes, delayed puberty, and hepatic and cardiac disorders. Additional risk factors, such as family history, lifestyle, obesity, gender, and age, may further increase susceptibility to diabetes in individuals with beta thalassemia.

This case series describes three patients with β-thalassemia major complicated by secondary diabetes mellitus due to iron overload, along with variable multisystem involvement. The patients were managed through an integrated, multidisciplinary approach involving hematology, endocrinology, and cardiology, resulting in clinical stabilization and successful discharge.

This case series highlights the importance of early recognition of iron overload-related complications, including secondary diabetes and associated endocrinopathies, to ensure timely intervention and optimize patient outcomes.