An adolescent experiencing a vaso-occlusive crisis reports right knee pain. Which is the most appropriate intervention?

A. Inspecting the mouth weekly for ulcerations is not sufficient. Children receiving chemotherapy should be encouraged to perform daily oral care, and any concerning symptoms should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider.

B. Using a potent commercial mouthwash is not recommended, as many commercial mouthwashes contain alcohol or other potentially irritating ingredients. A healthcare provider should recommend a suitable oral rinse if needed.

C. Clean the teeth manually with a soft toothbrush.

Children receiving chemotherapy are at risk of developing mouth sores (mucositis) and other oral complications. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene to minimize the risk of infection and reduce discomfort. Using a soft toothbrush for gentle manual cleaning is recommended, as it helps to prevent injury to the sensitive oral tissues that can occur with a hard toothbrush.

D. Visiting a dental professional only during episodes of excessive bleeding or pain is not recommended. Regular dental check-ups are important for children receiving chemotherapy to monitor and address oral health issues. Waiting for symptoms of bleeding or pain may result in a delay in addressing potential problems.

Option A, "Fatigue," is a symptom of anemia but is not a long-term complication associated with Thalassemia major.

Option B, "Deferoxamine usage," is a treatment to manage iron overload and not a complication associated with Thalassemia major.

Option C, "Immunosuppressive therapy," is not typically used to manage Thalassemia major and is not a long-term complication but rather a potential treatment for certain cases of thalassemia.

Option D. Hemochromatosis/Hemosiderosis

Thalassemia major is a genetic disorder that results in the body's inability to produce enough hemoglobin, leading to severe anemia.

To manage this condition, frequent blood transfusions are required, which can lead to iron overload in the body. Excess iron gets deposited in various organs and tissues, causing damage.

Hemochromatosis or hemosiderosis is a condition characterized by the accumulation of iron in organs like the liver, heart, and endocrine glands, which can result from repeated blood transfusions.

The complications associated with iron overload include liver damage, heart problems, diabetes, and more. Treatment with iron chelating agents like deferoxamine is often necessary to remove excess iron from the body.