Thalassemia - Genetic blood disorder
Q. Which of the following is/are true regarding Thalassemia?
1) Thalassemia is a genetic bone disorder.
2) It cannot be detected in the foetus.- Published on 09 Sep 16a. Only 1
b. Only 2
c. Both 1 and 2
d. Neither 1 nor 2
ANSWER: Neither 1 nor 2
- Thalassemias are inherited blood disorders that can result in the abnormal formation of hemoglobin.
- Symptoms depend on the type and can vary from none to severe.
- Often there is mild to severe anemia (low red blood cells). Anemia can result in feeling tired and pale skin.
- There may also be bone problems, an enlarged spleen, yellowish skin, dark urine, and among children slow growth.
- Thalassemia is a hereditary disorder that affects the growth of the child.
- The child suffering from thalassemia major requires lifelong blood transfusion.
- Counselling and testing may be done in case of family history of thalassemia. Genetic testing before conception is required for high risk cases.
- Thalassemia can be detected and diagnosed in the foetus with the help of Genetic testing.
