What is deletion alpha thalassemia?

What is deletion alpha thalassemia?

Alpha (α) thalassemia is a hereditary disorder and is caused by deletions or mutations in globin genes. It is present in two clinically significant forms: hemoglobin Bart hydrops fetalis (Hb Bart) syndrome and hemoglobin H (HbH) disease. It is highly prevalent in South-East Asia or Mediterranean countries.

What happens if both parents have alpha thalassemia trait?

If both parents have the gene defect, each of their children has a risk of having alpha thalassemia major. They are also at risk for having hemoglobin H disease, and of being a carrier. The gene defect that causes alpha thalassemia is more common in people from these areas: Mediterranean countries.

Can alpha thalassemia get worse?

Symptoms can worsen with fever. They can also get worse if you are exposed to certain medicines, chemicals, or infectious agents. Blood transfusions are often needed. You have a greater risk of having a child with alpha thalassemia major.

Does thalassemia cause mood swings?

[7] study conducted with adults in Italy, which suggested that most of the patients diagnosed with thalassemia had severe psychosocial problems, including depression and anxiety.

What are the symptoms of alpha thalassemia?

Affected people have anemia, which can cause pale skin, weakness, fatigue, and more serious complications. Two types of alpha-thalassemia can cause health problems: the more severe type is known as Hb Bart syndrome; the milder form is called HbH disease.

How does the severity of thalassemia depend on my Genes?

In alpha-thalassemia, the severity of thalassemia you have depends on the number of gene mutations you inherit from your parents. The more mutated genes, the more severe your thalassemia.

How many mutated alleles are in alpha thalassemia?

2 mutated alleles: A person may have mild alpha thalassemia symptoms (known as alpha thalassemia minor or alpha thalassemia trait). 3 mutated alleles: A person has moderate to severe symptoms (HbH disease).

Does alpha thalassemia minima show up on CBC?

Alpha thalassemia minima causes no laboratory changes on CBC. This is why it is called silent carrier. This is usually suspected after a child is born with Hemoglobin H disease. This can only be determined by genetic testing.