Hypocalcaemia due to hypoparathyroidism in β-thalassemia major. A study of a new case.

AIM: To report a new case of hypoparathyroidism in a child with ß-thalassemia major

CASE: We report a case of a 17-year-old Tunisian girl with transfusion-dependent thalassemia major presented with paresthesia and pubertal delay. Laboratory investigations showed hypocalcaemia and hyperphosphatemia. Parathyroid hormone level was low (2 ng/l, normal range: 12-72 ng/l) than expected for the degree of hypocalcaemia. Serum ferritin concentration was 1770ng/ml. The patient was started on oral daily calcium supplementation, Alfa calciferol and intensive iron chelation therapy. Follow-up after 6 and 12 months revealed normal Calcium and ECG showed QT interval within normal range.

CONCLUSION

Investigating calcium homeostasis at regular intervals and early management of any abnormality can preclude the occurrence of complications.