Held in conjunction with the 21st Annual Meeting of the American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology.

Overview and Purpose

For pediatric patients with transfusion-dependent diseases, iron chelation therapy can extend life expectancy; however, current management strategies that include daily parenteral chelation therapy might adversely affect quality of life. Oral iron chelation therapy has been approved for use in patients aged > 2 years, but recent analysis of this data suggests that pediatric patients, particularly those aged 2-5 years, might have unique pharmacokinetics and safety considerations. Many of these issues are being addressed in ongoing trials. The purpose of Expanding the Options for Iron Chelation Therapy in the Transfusion-Dependent Pediatric Patient is to assess recent data on iron chelation therapy in pediatric patients and review ongoing trials. Physicians who participate in this activity will be able to manage transfusion-dependent pediatric patients more effectively and enroll their patients in ongoing studies where applicable.
Target Audience
This educational program is directed toward medical hematologists and oncologists, including fellows in training, involved in the treatment of pediatric patients with transfusion-dependent iron overload. Oncology nurses, oncology physician assistants, and pharmacists who are interested in the treatment of cancer are also invited to attend.
CME Accreditation and Credit Designation
Physicians: Physicians’ Education Resource is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Physicians’ Education Resource designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Physician Assistants: AAPA accepts category 1 credit from AOACCME, Prescribed credit from AAFP, and AMA Category 1 CME credit for the PRA from organizations accredited by the ACCME.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this symposium, you should be able to:
  • Evaluate the underlying biology and clinical consequences of iron overload in pediatric patients receiving chronic blood transfusions
  • Review the efficacy and safety profile of oral iron chelation therapy in pediatric patients
  • Discuss the impact of iron chelation therapy in patients with low iron burden and potential use of different dosages in these patients
  • Determine the effects of iron chelation therapy on the cardiac health of transfusion-dependent pediatric patients
Acknowledgment
Supported by an educational grant from