Title: GENETIC RISK FOR A BETA THALASSAEMIA CARRIER, WHOSE PARTNER ALSO CARRIES BETA THALASSAEMIA
Author: Authorised User
Last saved by: Matthew Darlison

Implications for a Child when One Partner carries Beta Thalassaemia and the Other carries Haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia
This couple could have a child with beta thalassaemia major

In each pregnancy, there are four possibilities.
•	The child may not carry any haemoglobin disorder.
•	The child may carry beta thalassaemia. This is harmless.
•	The child may carry haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia. This is harmless.
•	The child may inherit beta thalassaemia from one parent and haemoglobin Lepore from the other. This child would have a severe inherited anaemia called beta thalassaemia major or beta thalassaemia intermedia.
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.
Beta thalassaemia major is a severe anaemia that starts between 6 months and 1 year of age. Most affected people need a blood transfusion every month, for life, and other treatments. Some people who inherit beta thalassaemia from one parent and haemoglobin Lepore thalassaemia from the other have a milder anaemia called beta thalassaemia intermedia, and may manage without blood transfusions.
We cannot reliably predict which couples could have children with severe or milder thalassaemia.
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.
Counselling for haemoglobin disorders is provided in your area by: