What is Thalassemia?

Thalassemia, often abbreviated as thal, also known as Mediterranean anemia, is a clinically common hereditary hemolytic anemia. Its main characteristic is autosomal gene defects that lead to deletion or mutation of genes regulating globin synthesis, causing an imbalance in the production of alpha and beta globin chains that make up hemoglobin, thereby shortening the lifespan of red blood cells and triggering hemolytic anemia. Thalassemia can be classified into three types based on severity: mild, intermediate, and severe. Patients with mild thalassemia may exhibit no obvious symptoms, while those with intermediate or severe forms may experience symptoms including pallor, poor appetite, delayed growth, jaundice, and poor development, and should seek timely medical treatment. Treatment options include dietary adjustments, medication, blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, surgical interventions, and stem cell transplantation.