Intestinal mucosal changes in thalassaemia major.

Ten infants and children suffering from Thalassaemia major, proven by clinical, hematological and biochemical criteria, were subjected to intestinal biopsy. Specimens were studied for histological and histochemical patterns. The histological picture showed shortening and fusion of villi with cellular infiltration. Reduced mucopolysaccharides and relatively normal alkaline phosphatase activity were demonstrated. The degree of histological and histochemical changes correlates with the degree of anemia. The effects of these changes on the iron absorption and the tissue hemosiderosis are aroused. The possibility of these changes, being non-specific and secondary to anemia and tissue hypoxia is also postulated.