Definition
Thalassemia is an inherited disorder. It leads to the decreased production and increased destruction of red blood cells. Hemoglobin in the red blood cells carry oxygen for all organs in the body. The loss of red blood cells results in low hemoglobin. This leads to anemia . The decreased oxygen will impair the ability to maintain normal functions.
Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is made of two separate amino acid chains. They are alpha and beta. Thalassemias are categorized by the specific chain and number of genes affected:
Alpha thalassemia—the alpha chain is affected
- Silent carrier—one gene affected
- Thalassemia trait—two genes affected
- Hemoglobin H disease—three genes affected
- Alpha hydrops fetalis—four genes affected, most severe form, results in fetal or newborn death
Beta thalassemia—the beta chain is affected
- Thalassemia minor—one abnormal gene
- Thalassemia major (Cooley's anemia)—two abnormal genes
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
More Thalassemia Information
Improved
620 HealthChanged
293 LivesSaved
210 LivesPopular this Week
Connect with Women Like You 24 Women Care About this Condition
You're not alone. Connect with other women who are going through what you're going through, who understand and are here for you!
+ Join this Community
