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Iron overload after repeated transfusions is a common complication in patients who require long-term blood transfusion therapy, such as those with thalassaemia, sickle cell disease, myelodysplastic syndromes, or chronic anaemia. Since the human body has no natural mechanism to eliminate excess iron efficiently, each transfused unit of red blood cells adds additional iron that gradually accumulates in vital organs. Over time, this iron deposition can damage the liver, heart, pancreas, and endocrine glands.

Early stages of iron overload may not produce noticeable symptoms, making regular monitoring essential. As iron levels increase, patients may experience fatigue, abdominal discomfort, irregular heartbeat, diabetes, liver dysfunction, delayed growth in children, or hormonal disturbances. Blood tests measuring serum ferritin, along with MRI scans assessing liver and cardiac iron concentration, help evaluate the severity of iron accumulation.

Treatment primarily involves iron chelation therapy, which binds excess iron and promotes its removal through urine or stool. Common chelating medications include deferoxamine, deferasirox, and deferiprone. Patients also benefit from routine follow-up, balanced nutrition, and avoiding unnecessary iron supplements unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis, consistent monitoring, and appropriate chelation therapy significantly reduce complications, improve organ function, and enhance long-term quality of life for individuals receiving chronic transfusion therapy.