APoGI for the Haemoglobin Disorders

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Implications for a Child when One Partner carries Beta Thalassaemia and the Other carries Alpha Thalassaemia (type unknown)

The following information applies only if the partner who carries beta thalassaemia has had a DNA test that shows he or she does not also carry alpha thalassaemia.

There is no particular problem for this couple. This combination cannot cause a serious inherited anaemia in their children.

Partner who carries beta thalassaemia Carrier of alpha thalassaemia (type unknown)
Not a carrier Carrier of beta thalassaemia Carrier of alpha thalassaemia (type unknown) Carrier of both beta and alpha thalassaemia (type unknown)

In each pregnancy, there are four possibilities:

This couple has the same chance of a healthy family as other couples do.

When the children grow up...

... they should have blood test to see if they have inherited alpha or beta thalassaemia. If they have, their partner should have a test "for haemoglobin disorders". It is important to remember this for the future.

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These documents are part of the APoGI May 1998 (Evaluation) Release and are made available subject to the APoGI Disclaimers covering usage, distribution and copying.

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