What problems can a woman with alpha thalassemia have if she plans to conceive?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a thalassemia carrier patient with an alpha trait, and my girlfriend also has the same thalassemia trait issue. Moreover recently I got diagnosed with neutropenia. My question is should I continue with the relationship with my girlfriend? Would it cause any problem, for our future generation or for my girlfriend while conceiving?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

In beta thalassemia condition, two minor couple marriage is not advisable. But in alpha thalassemia, the mechanism is somewhat complex because the alpha chain contains four gene alleles. So it has to be checked how many alleles are affected in alpha thalassemia.

In alpha thalassemia, HbH and Hb Bart has been the main issue in minor couple marriage. Hb Bart is a condition in which no allele is present so it is a dangerous condition. HbH is not serious as that of Hb Bart. So molecular testing is advisable in that case. Consult a nearby hematologist for examination and further molecular investigation

I hope this will help you.

Thank you and take care.