What is the long-term treatment approach for thalassemia major?

• A. Iron supplementation
• B. No treatment needed
• C. Regular transfusions with iron chelation therapy
• D. Antibiotic prophylaxis only

Answer: (C)

Long-term management of thalassemia major revolves around two goals: provide enough healthy red blood cells to overcome severe anemia and prevent iron buildup from those transfusions. Regular red blood cell transfusions keep hemoglobin at a level that reduces symptoms, supports growth and organ function, and suppresses the body’s overactive marrow production. But each transfusion adds iron to the body, which the body cannot excrete efficiently. Over time this iron overload can damage the liver, heart, and endocrine organs. That’s why iron chelation therapy is added to bind the excess iron so it can be eliminated, helping prevent serious organ damage. So, the best long-term approach is regular transfusions paired with ongoing iron chelation therapy. Iron supplementation would worsen iron overload, no treatment isn’t appropriate given the severity, and relying on antibiotics alone wouldn’t address the anemia or iron overload.