TNF and beta thalassemia: Many studies have shown that levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, and IL-8 are increased in patients with thalassemia compared to controls.22,23 Moreover, Wanachiwanawin W et al.24 reported that elevated TNF-alpha and IL-1 levels may contribute to complications of beta-thalassemia/HbE disease.