Are there different types of Thalassemia?
Alpha thalassemia appears in people whose hemoglobin does not produce enough alpha protein. There are five types of alpha thalassemia: • Silent Carrier • Alpha Thalassemia Trait • Hemoglobin H Disease • Hemoglobin H – Constant Spring • Alpha Thalassemia Major Beta thalassemia appears in people whose hemoglobin does not produce enough beta protein. There are three types of beta thalassemia: • Thalassemia minor or Thalassemia trait – In this condition the individual has smaller than normal red blood cells but generally has no health problems. Occasionally, those with this condition suffer from mild anemia. • Thalassemia Intermedia – In this condition the lack of beta protein causes more severe anemia and other health problems commonly associated with Thalassemia major (bone deformities and enlarged spleen). These individuals need more regular transfusions but it is typically to improve life not for survival. • Thalassemia Major or Cooley’s Anemia – This is the most severe of the beta tha