the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of Spirulina compared to Amlodipine on cardiac iron overload and cardiac functions in multi-transfused children with beta thalassemia major

the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of Spirulina compared to Amlodipine on cardiac iron overload using magnetic resonance imaging and cardiac functions in multi-transfused children with beta thalassemia major

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients on regular blood transfusions.
• iron overload with no perspective of changing the chelation therapy in the following three months

Exclusion Criteria:

• formal contraindication to magnetic resonance examinations
• implantable cardiac device
• advanced cardiomyopathy or conduction block
• other types of hemolytic anemias