Reticuloendothelial Phagocytic Function in Children with β-Thalassemia Major

Abstract

Reticuloendothelial phagocytic capacity (REPC) was determined in 14 children with .beta.-thalassemia major, by 99mTc sulfur colloid uptake, who had not splenectomy. No difference was observed in the REPC between patient and controls. The REPC of liver and spleen were evaluated separately by determining the half-time for the clearance of 99mTc from the blood. The REPC of liver and spleen in patients was expected to be decreased when compared with controls. The REPC of the liver was increased in patients, and there was no difference between patient''s and controls'' spleen values. Chronic anemia and hemosiderosis apparently do not alter the REPC in .beta.-thalassemia major.