Extramedullary hematopoiesis in a patient with beta-thalassemia intermedia manifesting as symptomatic pleural effusion.

A case of bilateral paravertebral extramedullary hematopoietic masses with symptomatic pleural effusion in a patient with beta-thalassemia intermedia is reported. The pleural effusion was controlled by pleurodesis using tetracycline. We review the literature on this uncommon complication of beta-thalassemia intermedia and discuss the options for diagnosis and treatment.