Thalassemia: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Q: Can thalassemia be cured?

The sole treatment for thalassemia is a bone marrow or stem cell transplant; however, due to the high dangers involved, these procedures are performed infrequently. Bone marrow, the spongy substance located in the centre of some bones, is where stem cells are created. These cells can differentiate into several blood cell types.

Q: How do you diagnose thalassemia?

Blood testing can confirm the diagnosis if your child's physician suspects thalassemia. Blood tests can also identify anomalies in size, shape, or colour and the quantity of red blood cells. DNA analysis can also be performed on blood samples to find gene mutations.

Q: At what age is thalassemia detected?

Thalassemia major manifests clinically between the ages of 6 and 24 months. Babies affected by the condition do not flourish and eventually turn pallid. Spleen and liver enlargement, feeding issues, diarrhoea, irritability, and repeated fever episodes may bring on gradual abdominal enlargement.

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Thalassemia - Symptoms and causes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main cause of thalassemia?

Thalassemia arises from mutations in the DNA of cells responsible for producing haemoglobin, the essential component of red blood cells facilitating oxygen transport in the body. Children inherit these mutations from their parents.