Types of Thalassemia

 Types of Thalassemia 

Hemoglobin consist of 2 alpha protein and 2 beta protein.

Thalassemia occurs when defect in gene that control production of protein chains.

1. According to defect of genes

Two types;

1. Alpha thalassemia

Gene related to apha globin protein are missing or changed (mutated).

3. Beta thalassemia

Gene defect affect production of beta globin protein.

Beta thalassemia is more common.

2. According to severity

1. Thalassemia minor

Associated with decreased beta chain synthesis. 

Heterozygous form of disease i.e defective gene received from one parents.

Usually asymptomatic, person with thalassemia minor disease are carriers of disease.

2.Thalassemia major

Cause severe anaemia 

Associated with little or no capacity to produce beta chain of hemoglobin.

Also known as Cooley's anaemia/ Mediterranean anaemia.

Homozygous form of disease i.e defected gene received from both parents.