iron overload
Excessive accumulation of iron in body tissues, commonly occurring in chronically transfused pediatric patients with thalassemia or sickle cell disease.
Full Definition
Iron overload refers to the pathological accumulation of iron in organs, particularly the heart, liver, and endocrine glands. In pediatric hematology, it most commonly results from repeated blood transfusions in patients with thalassemia major, sickle cell disease, or other chronic anemias. Each unit of blood contains approximately 200-250mg of iron, and the body has limited ability to excrete excess iron. Progressive iron accumulation leads to organ dysfunction, including cardiomyopathy, hepatic fibrosis, diabetes, and growth retardation. Monitoring involves serum ferritin levels and cardiac/hepatic MRI to assess tissue iron content.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from hereditary hemochromatosis, which is rare in children.
In Context
- "Annual cardiac MRI showed progressive iron overload despite chelation therapy." — cardiology consultation
- "The patient's serum ferritin of 3,000 ng/mL indicated significant iron overload." — laboratory report