Diagnostic Pilot Study of Dual Energy Absorptiometry in the Detection of Osteopenia or Osteoporosis in Patients With Thalassemia Major

OBJECTIVES:

I. Determine the frequency and severity of osteopenia and osteoporosis in patients with thalassemia major who undergo dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, and correlate these findings with other relevant endocrinologic measurements.

PROTOCOL OUTLINE:

Patients undergo dual energy x-ray absorptiometry for bone density measurements, height (sitting and standing) and weight measurements, comprehensive endocrinologic examination, and assessment of the severity of iron overload at baseline, and then at years 1 and 2.

• Diagnosis of thalassemia major with iron overload
• Not pregnant
• Negative pregnancy test