Thalassemia

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Thalassemia

Thalassemia is a group of inherited blood disorders that interfere with the body's normal production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a substance that red blood cells need in order to carry oxygen to body tissues.

Thalassemia is inherited, passed on through genes from parent to child. Most people who inherit thalassemia are of Asian, Filipino, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or, less frequently, African descent.

Symptoms of the disease vary. Some people have no symptoms or very mild symptoms, in which case they may not need treatment. Others develop symptoms of anemia, such as weakness, fatigue, lightheadedness, and pale skin.

People who have moderate to severe symptoms of anemia may require treatment with folic acid supplements and occasional blood transfusions. People who have the most severe symptoms of anemia usually require regular blood transfusions, medication, and folic acid supplements. Very rare forms of thalassemia may cause organ damage that can result in death.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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