Thalassemia Types

Thalassmia meaning that is a condition of the blood that hinders an adequate production of haemoglobin in the body. The hemoglobin that is present in the RBCs is made of two identical chains of proteins called Alpha and Beta. Depending on which protein chain is defective, Thalassemia is categorized as Alpha Thalassemia or Beta Thalassemia. 

1. Alpha Thalassemia– When the Alpha chain has fewer or absolutely no connecting blocks to produce normal levels of hemoglobin, then it is called Alpha Thalassemia.

2. Beta Thalassemia– If the Beta chain of hemoglobin has reduced or no connectors, then the condition is marked as Beta Thalassemia.

Thalassemia can also be classified based on its severity. The different Thalassemia types include –

1. Thalassemia Trait– This is a state where only one parent has an abnormal DNA of haemoglobin molecule while the other parent has a normal gene. In this case, the child will be a Thalassemia trait carrier with mild anaemia. They will not have any Thalassemia symptoms or health issues. People with Thalassemia trait in pregnancy should take special care to have disease-free children.

2. Thalassemia Major– Major Thalassemia is a critical health disorder that requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when the person has two copies of defective genes of haemoglobin in his body.

3. Thalassemia Intermedia– Here, the symptoms of Thalassemia are not as mild as minor Thalassemia nor as severe as major Thalassemia. It is an intermediate condition that requires close monitoring of one’s health along with periodic medical check-ups.