Thalassemics can develop liver fibrosis because of iron overload and hepatitis C infection. The latter is the main risk factor for liver fibrosis in transfusion dependent thalassemics. Excess liver iron is clearly recognized as a co factor for the development of advanced fibrosis in patients with hepatitis virus C infection. Transient elastography (Fibroscan) is a reliable non invasive method for diagnosing as liver fibrosis in thalassemic patients regardless of the degree of iron overload. There is evidence that suggests Spirulina may help to protect against liver damage, cirrhosis and liver failure in those with chronic liver disease.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
60
Spirulina in a dose of 250 mg/kg/day will be given orally for 3 months.
Faculty of Medicine- Tanta University
Tanta, Gharbia Governorate, Egypt
liver stiffness measurement using transient elastography (Fibroscan)
Time frame: 3 months
liver function tests
Time frame: 3 months
aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI)
Time frame: 3 months
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