Abstract
Introduction: Beta-thalassemia major is a severe genetic blood disorder characterized by defective hemoglobin production, leading to chronic anemia and frequent blood transfusions, which in turn cause iron overload and related complications.
Objectives: The study explores the association between salivary glucosyltransferase-B (GTF-B) levels and iron metabolism markers, including ferritin, hepcidin, and vitamin D, in patients with beta-thalassemia major.
Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 45 adolescents aged 12-17 years with beta-thalassemia major and 45 healthy controls. Saliva and blood samples were collected from participants. Salivary GTF-B levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while serum levels of hepcidin, ferritin, and vitamin D were assessed using the Cobas E411 and C111 systems. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.
Results: This study found significantly lower levels of salivary GTF-B in beta-thalassemia patients (13.221±3.307 pg/mL) compared to controls (17.714±3.923 pg/mL; P<0.001). Serum iron and ferritin were significantly higher in beta-thalassemia patients (221.151±55.472 µg/dL versus 4158.367±542.637 ng/mL) compared to control subjects (73.540±39.257 µg/dL), (25.110±10.933 ng/mL), respectively (P<0.001). Serum hepcidin levels were higher in the study group (127.133±40.482 ng/mL) than in controls (114.071±34.698 ng/mL) but without statistical significance (P=0.420). Vitamin D levels were significantly lower in beta-thalassemia patients (9.831±4.693 ng/mL) compared to controls (16.404±12.934 ng/mL; P=0.002).
Conclusion: Beta-thalassemia major patients exhibit altered levels of salivary GTF-B and serum markers of iron metabolism and vitamin D. The findings suggest potential disruptions in oral health biomarkers and iron regulatory mechanisms in these patients.