Difficulties in diagnosing thalassemia minor

Karaman S., Apak H.

TURK PEDIATRI ARSIVI-TURKISH ARCHIVES OF PEDIATRICS, vol.44, pp.24-26, 2009 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 44
  • Publication Date: 2009
  • Journal Name: TURK PEDIATRI ARSIVI-TURKISH ARCHIVES OF PEDIATRICS
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.24-26
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Here we outline a practical approach to the detection of thalassemias in some clinical settings. Any patient with a low mean corpuscular volume (MCV) with or without anemia or a neonatal screening result indicating possible presence of thalassemia minor needs evaluation by a hematologist. But sometimes it is difficult to diagnose a patient whose hemoglobin electrophoresis is normal. We review the various types of the thalassemia syndromes, where exact diagnosis could be difficult. (Turk Arch Ped 2009; 44 Suppl: 24-6)