Evaluation of serum urotensin II levels in beta thalassemia minor

Objective: Beta-thalassemia minor (BTM) has traditionally been viewed as a benign hematologic condition, yet recent evidence indicates possible subclinical vascular abnormalities. Urotensin II (UII), a vasoactive and proinflammatory peptide, is involved in endothelial dysfunction. This study aimed to evaluate serum UII levels in BTM patients and determine their associations with clinical, hematological, and metabolic parameters. Methods: Forty-six patients with BTM and 45 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled. Serum UII concentrations were measured and compared between groups. Correlations between UII levels and demographic, hematologic, lipid, and anthropometric variables were analyzed. Subgroup analyses were performed based on sex and smoking status. Results: UII levels were significantly higher in BTM patients compared to controls (p < .001). Elevated concentrations were detected in both sexes, with the highest levels observed among current smokers. UII showed positive correlations with HbA₂ (r = .482, p < .001) and RBC count (r = .314, p = .003), and a negative correlation with MCV (r = –.410, p < .001). No significant associations were found with age, BMI, or lipid parameters. Conclusion: Increased UII levels in BTM may reflect erythropoietic stress and endothelial activation. The observed hematologic correlations and potential involvement of UII in MAPK signaling suggest a role in the subclinical vascular pathophysiology of BTM.