Alpha and beta thalassemia are inherited disorders
Alpha and beta thalassemia are both inherited blood disorders that affect the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
In alpha thalassemia, there is a reduced or absent production of alpha globin chains, which leads to a decreased production of hemoglobin. This can result in anemia and other complications, depending on the severity of the condition. Alpha thalassemia is most common in people of Asian or African ancestry.
In beta thalassemia, there is a reduced or absent production of beta globin chains, which also leads to a decreased production of hemoglobin. This can result in anemia and other complications, depending on the severity of the condition. Beta thalassemia is most common in people of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian ancestry.
Both alpha and beta thalassemia are inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to develop the condition. People who inherit only one copy of the mutated gene are carriers of the condition and do not typically experience symptoms.
Genetic counseling and testing can help individuals and families understand their risk of inheriting thalassemia and make informed decisions about family planning and medical management. Treatment for thalassemia may include blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, and in some cases, bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.