Secondary treatment outcomes
bleeding, syncope, paresthesia, hepatomegaly, infections, rash, constipation, pain, splenomegaly, headache
BLEEDING, ADVERSE EVENTS, PARESTHESIA, INFECTIONS, BLOOD

Determination of change in RBC indices, serum ferritin, LDH and uric acid levels.Determination of change in liver and spleen size after thalidomide treatment.Demographic details, clinical history and a thorough clinical examination was tackled by an experienced hematologist. Venous blood sample (6 mL) was collected under aseptic conditions in EDTA containing and gel sample collection tubes. The findings were recorded on a structured data collection form at baseline and on monthly basis for a period of 30 months. Blood samples were collected in two different sample collection tubes: Plastic Serum Tube with silicone coated interior (red top) 4 mL (catalog # 367812; BD VacutainerTo assess the efficacy of thalidomide therapy, hematological profile (complete blood count), radiological findings (hepatomegaly and splenomegaly), and serum biochemical profile (uric acid, LDH, and ferritin levels) were assessed at baseline and on monthly basis throughout the study duration.For safety of thalidomide therapy, liver function tests (bilirubin and ALT) and renal function tests (creatinine) were assessed at baseline and on monthly basis throughout the study duration. Additionally, adverse events were recorded on each follow-up to determine the safety of thalidomide therapy. The patient/guardian/parent was specifically inquired regarding paresthesia, rash, constipation, unwarranted infections, bleeding symptoms, pain in the abdomen, headache, syncope, focal weakness, and behavioral changes.