Growth factors and puberty in thalassemia adolescents

Thalassemia is a genetic disorder that affects hemoglobin synthesis, causing chronic anemia that contributes to delayed growth and puberty in adolescents. This literature review discusses the factors underlying these delays, such as chronic anemia, iron overload due to repeated blood transfusions, and hormonal dysfunction. Oxygen deficiency due to anemia disrupts metabolic processes and endocrine function, especially in the pituitary axis and gonads, leading to delayed puberty. Effective treatment strategies include routine blood transfusions to maintain hemoglobin levels, iron chelation therapy to prevent endocrine damage, and hormonal interventions to treat growth and puberty disorders. Early detection and regular monitoring are essential to optimize outcomes for adolescent patients with thalassemia.