Hypercalciuria can occur in patients with beta-thalassemia major.
Definition of hypercalciuria: >= 4 mg/kg per day in a 24-hour urine specimen
Mechanism: impaired renal tubular function
Risk factors:
(1) deferasirox (DFX) therapy
Laboratory findings reflective of tubular dysfunction may include:
(1) increased phosphaturia
(2) increased creatininuria
(3) mild proteinuria
Complications:
(1) nephrolithiasis
(2) osteoporosis
(3) nephrocalcinosis
