Certified Pediatric Hematology Oncology Nurse (CPHON) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CPHON Practice Questions and Study Guide

Chronic anemia in beta thalassemia leads to a range of complications as a result of prolonged low hemoglobin levels and the resultant organ dysfunction. Among these complications, bone deformities are a significant issue. In patients with beta thalassemia, the body attempts to compensate for the anemia by increasing erythropoiesis (the production of red blood cells), which often results in expansion of the bone marrow.

This expansion takes place in the axial skeleton and skull, leading to characteristic changes such as thickened bones and deformities—particularly in the facial bones and the skull. These changes can affect the overall growth and development of the patient, as well as lead to additional complications such as increased risk of fractures and misalignment of teeth.

While the other options can be considered in the context of various conditions, they are not primary complications directly attributed to chronic anemia in beta thalassemia. For instance, increased risk of stroke can occur due to other factors, such as hyperviscosity of the blood or thrombosis, but it is not directly a result of chronic anemia from beta thalassemia. Similarly, changes in heart rate and skin pigmentation do not typically link to chronic anemia of this condition or result from the mechanisms of