Alpha Thalassemia (cont.)

How Do People Inherit Alpha Thalassemia?

The inheritance of alpha thalassemia is complex. Each person inherits two alpha-globin alleles from each parent. If both parents are missing at least one alpha-globin allele, their children are at risk of having Hb Bart syndrome, HbH disease, or alpha thalassemia trait. The precise risk depends on how many alleles are missing and which combination of the HBA1 and HBA2 genes is affected.

SOURCE: Genetics Home Reference. Alpha Thalassemia.


Last Editorial Review: 8/1/2009


Patient Comments

Viewers share their comments

Alpha Thalassemia - Symptoms Question: What are your Alpha Thalassemia Symptoms?
Alpha Thalassemia - Diagnosis Question: How was your alpha thalassemia diagnosed?

Get the latest health and medical information delivered direct to your inbox FREE!