Psychopathology in Children with Thalassemia Major

The present work investigated the prevalence and spectrum of psychopathology in children with thalassemia. Childhood psychopathology measurement schedule (CPMS), adapted from Child Behavior Checklist was administered on children with thalassemia major receiving regular blood transfusion. Age and sex matched children with other chronic illness (bronchial asthma) served as controls. 46.7% of children with thalassemia had a CPMS score of > 10 as against 17.1% in the control group. Children with thalassemia had higher scores in factors of conduct problems, special symptoms and somatization. This study highlights the significantly higher psychopathology in children with thalassemia major and emphasizes the need for psychosocial support during treatment.