What tests are included in thalassemia screening during prenatal checkups?
Apr 07, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
Thalassemia usually refers to Mediterranean anemia. Prenatal testing for thalassemia generally includes a complete blood count, hemoglobin electrophoresis, peptide chain analysis, serum ferritin measurement, and genetic testing for thalassemia. In addition, pregnant women with thalassemia should take ferrous succinate tablets orally under the guidance of a doctor, and can also consume moderate amounts of pig blood, pork liver, lean meat, and other foods in daily life.
Generally, thalassemia refers to Mediterranean anemia. During prenatal examinations for thalassemia, common tests include complete blood count (CBC), hemoglobin electrophoresis, peptide chain analysis, serum ferritin measurement, and genetic testing for thalassemia. The details are as follows:
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A CBC is usually performed at a hospital during prenatal screening for thalassemia. This test primarily evaluates red blood cells, hemoglobin levels, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV). Individuals with mild or severe thalassemia often show reduced red blood cell counts.
2. Hemoglobin Electrophoresis
Hemoglobin electrophoresis helps determine whether hemoglobin molecules are abnormal. This test can confirm intermediate or severe forms of thalassemia. An elevated level of hemoglobin A2 typically indicates the presence of thalassemia.
3. Peptide Chain Analysis
Peptide chain analysis can also detect thalassemia. Normally, results are negative; a positive result usually indicates thalassemia.
4. Serum Ferritin Measurement
Serum ferritin measurement assesses the level of ferritin in the blood, reflecting the body's iron stores. Measuring serum ferritin during pregnancy helps doctors evaluate the pregnant woman’s iron reserves and risk of anemia, thus preventing adverse effects on fetal growth and development.
5. Genetic Testing for Thalassemia
Genetic testing for thalassemia determines whether the pregnant woman and her partner carry gene mutations associated with thalassemia. This enables physicians to assess the risk of the fetus developing thalassemia and implement appropriate preventive or therapeutic measures.
In addition, pregnant women with thalassemia should take ferrous succinate tablets orally under medical supervision. In daily life, they may moderately consume foods such as pig blood, pork liver, and lean meat, which are beneficial for recovery.
