Usual cause
Long-term complication of repeated red cell transfusions with iron deposition in organs. Each transfusion contributes about 250mg of iron.
Incidence
Not known, but should be considered with multiple transfusions, especially > 20 units.
Main clinical features
Symptoms and signs of organ damage or failure; especially liver, cardiac and arthropathy.
Investigation
Serum ferritin and transferrin saturation. Organ imaging and liver biopsy.
Intervention
Iron chelating agents for treatment and for prevention where anticipated.