Beta thalassemia

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Thalassemia intermedia)

Beta Thalassemia is a genetic disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. This condition is characterized by a deficiency in the production of beta-globin, a component of hemoglobin.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Beta Thalassemia is caused by mutations in the HBB gene, which provides instructions for making beta-globin. These mutations can be inherited from both parents, in which case the condition is known as beta thalassemia major or Cooley's anemia. If the mutation is inherited from only one parent, the condition is known as beta thalassemia minor or beta thalassemia trait.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of beta thalassemia vary depending on the severity of the condition. In cases of beta thalassemia major, symptoms may include severe anemia, failure to thrive, and enlarged spleen (splenomegaly). Individuals with beta thalassemia minor may have mild anemia but are often asymptomatic.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Beta Thalassemia is typically diagnosed through blood tests that measure the amount and type of hemoglobin in the blood. Genetic testing may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific mutations in the HBB gene.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for beta thalassemia depends on the severity of the condition. For individuals with beta thalassemia major, regular blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy to remove excess iron from the body may be necessary. In some cases, a bone marrow transplant may be considered.

See Also[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD