What is Alpha Thalassaemia trait?

Alpha thalassemia happens when one or more of the genes that control the making of alpha globins is absent or defective. It can cause anemia ranging from mild to severe and is most commonly found in people of African, Middle Eastern, Chinese, Southeast Asian, and, occasionally, Mediterranean descent.

What causes thalassemia trait?

Thalassemia is caused by mutations in the DNA of cells that make hemoglobin — the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. The mutations associated with thalassemia are passed from parents to children.

Does alpha thalassemia trait cause anemia?

What problems can alpha thalassemia trait cause? People with alpha thalassemia trait often have a mild anemia (low blood count). Usually this low blood count does not cause symptoms or problems. Under the microscope, the red blood cells appear smaller than usual.

How is alpha thalassemia trait treated?

Treatments. No treatment is needed for people who are silent carriers (minima) or for alpha thalassemia minor. Although, people with alpha thalassemia minor will have lifelong mild anemia. Those with more moderate to severe cases may require blood transfusions or chelation therapy.

Is alpha thalassemia dominant or recessive?

Alpha-thalassaemia is considered an autosomal recessive disorder, but inheritance is complex because the alpha globin chain production is controlled by two genes: HBA1 and HBA2. There are two clinically significant forms of alpha-thalassaemia.

Is alpha thalassemia recessive or dominant?

How do you test for alpha thalassemia trait?

DNA testing is the only way to determine silent alpha thalassemia trait and the related hemoglobin trait called hemoglobin Constant Spring. DNA testing may also be necessary in order to allow for the option of prenatal testing.

What happens if one parent has alpha thalassemia?

Some babies with other inherited blood conditions may not be identified (this is rare). Alpha thalassemia major (ATM) happens when a baby inherits alpha thalassemia trait from both parents. The baby does not make any normal hemoglobin and usually dies before birth due to heart failure and fluid build-up (hydrops).