Why is thalassemia test done?

Why is thalassemia test done?

Because thalassemias are passed from parents to children through genes, family genetic studies also can help diagnose the disorder. These studies involve taking a family medical history and doing blood tests on family members. The tests will show whether any family members have missing or altered hemoglobin genes.

At what age is thalassemia detected?

The symptoms of beta thalassemia major occur when an infant is between 6 and 24 months. They include: Poor growth and development. Pale skin.

What are the symptoms of thalassemia trait?

Thalassemia signs and symptoms can include:

• Fatigue.
• Weakness.
• Pale or yellowish skin.
• Facial bone deformities.
• Slow growth.
• Abdominal swelling.
• Dark urine.

What is the thalassemia trait?

Having a thalassemia trait means that you may not have any symptoms, but you might pass that trait on to your children and increase their risk for having thalassemia. Sometimes, thalassemias have other names, like Constant Spring, Cooley’s Anemia, or hemoglobin Bart hydrops fetalis.

Is thalassemia linked to leukemia?

Abstract. Occurrence of leukemia in thalassemia major is a rare presentation. Here we report two cases of thalassemic patients, developing acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The genetic analysis revealed that, female and male patients were homozygous for IVSI-6 and IVSI-5, respectively.

Can thalassemia trait donate blood?

Individuals with thalassemia trait usually have a normal hemoglobin concentration or mild anemia. Therefore, thalassemic individuals who have minimum acceptable Hb level may be accepted as blood donors.

How do you test for thalassemia trait?

Several laboratory tests may be used to help detect and diagnose thalassemia:

1. Complete blood count (CBC). The CBC is an evaluation of the cells in the blood.
2. Blood smear (also called peripheral smear and manual differential).
3. Iron studies.
4. Hemoglobinopathy (Hb) evaluation (hemoglobin electrophoresis).