What is the typical maxillofacial skeletal deformity associated with thalassemia?

Maxillary class II and maxillary hyperplasia is associated with thalassemia due to the underlying hematologic condition impacting bone development and morphology. Thalassemia can lead to abnormal facial growth patterns, particularly in children, as the disease affects the bone marrow and can require frequent blood transfusions. These blood transfusions lead to increased iron deposition in tissues, which can interfere with normal bone growth and development.

The typical presentation in patients with thalassemia includes an overgrowth of the maxilla when compared to the mandible. This is manifested as maxillary hyperplasia. Additionally, malocclusion is common, and many patients display a skeletal Class II relationship due to the disproportionate development of the maxilla relative to the mandible. This discrepancy reinforces the association between the disease and the characteristic facial deformities, which can lead to not only aesthetic concerns but functional issues as well.

While the other options present features that can occur in various conditions, they do not encapsulate the specific maxillofacial changes typically observed in thalassemia patients.