Thalassaemia

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Thalassaemia

Thalassaemia (pronounced: thuh-luh-SEE-mee-uh) is a group of inherited blood disorders that affect the body's ability to produce haemoglobin and red blood cells.

Etymology

The term "Thalassaemia" is derived from the Greek words "thalassa" meaning "sea" and "haema" meaning "blood". This is because the condition was first discovered in populations living near the Mediterranean Sea.

Types of Thalassaemia

There are two main types of Thalassaemia: Alpha Thalassaemia and Beta Thalassaemia. Each of these types can be further divided into subtypes depending on the severity of the condition and the number of gene mutations involved.

Alpha Thalassaemia

Alpha Thalassaemia occurs when there is a problem with the production of alpha globin, a component of haemoglobin. It can be further divided into two subtypes: Alpha Thalassaemia Major and Alpha Thalassaemia Minor.

Beta Thalassaemia

Beta Thalassaemia occurs when there is a problem with the production of beta globin, another component of haemoglobin. It can be further divided into three subtypes: Thalassaemia Major, Thalassaemia Intermedia, and Thalassaemia Minor.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Thalassaemia can vary greatly depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, facial bone deformities, slow growth, abdominal swelling, and dark urine.

Treatment

Treatment for Thalassaemia depends on the type and severity of the condition. It may include blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, folic acid supplements, and in severe cases, a bone marrow transplant.

Related Terms

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