What is Thalassemia intermedia?

Beta thalassemias (β thalassemias) are a group of inherited blood disorders. They are caused by reduced or absent synthesis of the beta chains of hemoglobin that result in variable outcomes ranging from severe anemia to clinically asymptomatic individuals. Global annual incidence is estimated at 1 in 100,000. Beta thalassemia (β thalassemia) is a form of thalassemia caused by mutations in the HBB gene on chromosome 11, inherited in an autosomal recessive fashion. The severity of the disease depends on the nature of the mutation. HBB blockage over time leads to decreased Beta-chain synthesis. The body’s inability to construct new Beta-chains leads to the underproduction of HBA. Reductions in HBA available overall to fill the red blood cells in turn leads to microcytic anemia. Microcytic anemia ultimately develops in respect to inadequate HBB for sufficient red blood cell functioning. Due to this factor, the patient must undergo a blood transfusion for survival to make up for the blockage in the Beta-chains. Repeated blood transfusions lead to build-up of iron overload ultimately resulting in iron toxicity. This iron toxicity produces myocardial siderosis and heart failure leading to the patient’s death.