Thalassemia and Priapism: A Literature Review of a Rare Association

Thalassemia is a hematologic disorder caused by genetic mutation resulting in impaired hemoglobin chain production. Patients with thalassemia commonly experience complications such as anemia, blood transfusion-related issues, hepatic or cardiac involvement, and psychosocial impacts. Rarely, priapism has been associated with thalassemia as an initial presentation or subsequently occurring at any time in the disease course. Our literature review summarizes the reported cases of thalassemia-associated priapism and delves into underlying mechanisms of its pathophysiology and appropriate management.