Transfusion-Related Iron Overload–Evidence-Based Approaches to Improve Chelation Outcomes

Target Audience

This educational activity is directed toward hematologists. Pediatricians, nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other clinicians involved in the management of patients with iron overload are also invited to attend.

Program Overview

Patients who require ongoing red blood cell transfusions, such as individuals with transfusion-dependent thalassemia or sickle cell disease, may develop iron overload. Severe or long-term iron overload can result in a higher risk of a variety of complications, including hepatic dysfunction, heart failure and arrhythmias, and endocrine complications.

In this program, experts take learners through a comprehensive review of transfusion-related iron overload, taking a deep dive into the optimal use of chelation therapy, with specific approaches to patients with sickle cell disease and thalassemia major.

This educational activity is an archive of the live virtual presentation held on December 9, 2022.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants should be better able to:

• Outline the pathophysiologic effects of iron overload at a cellular level
• Identify end-organ effects from excess iron in transfusion-dependent patients
• Apply appropriate testing modalities to assess iron status in patients with transfusion-dependent iron overload
• Develop optimal care plans for patients with iron overload based on clinical presentation and goals of therapy