APoGI for the Haemoglobin Disorders

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Implications for a Child when Both Partners carry Haemoglobin Lepore Thalassaemia

This is an unusual combination that has not been reported in the literature. The following information is based on general experience with these types of thalassaemia, and available scientific knowledge.

This couple could have a child with beta thalassaemia intermedia

Partner who carries haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia Partner who carries haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia
Not a carrier Carrier of haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia Carrier of haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia Child with beta thalassaemia intermedia

In each pregnancy, there are three possibilities:

In each pregnancy there is a 3 out of 4 chance of a healthy child, and a 1 out of 4 risk of child with beta thalassaemia major or intermedia.

Beta thalassaemia intermedia...

... is an inherited anaemia that starts in childhood. Some people with thalassaemia intermedia are healthy all their life. Most are anaemic and need extra care. Some need regular blood transfusions. Current scientific knowledge suggests that a child who inherits delta-beta thalassaemia from both parents would have a mild type of thalassaemia intermedia. However, we cannot reliably predict whether any given couple could have children with mild or more severe beta thalassaemia intermedia.

It is possible to test a baby for beta thalassaemia major or intermedia early in pregnancy. This couple should see an expert counsellor in haemoglobin disorders to discuss their options, before starting a pregnancy, or as early in pregnancy as possible.

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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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