Get Virtual Care
For Businesses
About Us
A member asked:
How is thalassemia inherited?
4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
From Mom and/or Dad: Alpha thalassemia is caused by a mutation in one or more of the 4 genes that code for (holds the dna for) Alpha globulin, which is needed to make hemoglobin for new red blood cells. Beta thalassemia is caused by a mutation in one or both of the 2 beta globulin genes. Mom and/or dad can carry the mutations. A child can inherit a mutation from mom, from dad, or from both mom and dad.
Answered 11/2/2015
6.2k views
Thank
Genetically: The full expression of thalassemia requires the genetic mixing of both defective genes from the male and female.
Answered 4/24/2015
4.9k views
Thank
Related Questions
People also searched for:
How long after birth does a child who inherited thalassemia major show symptoms?
Can you tell me in the case of thalassemia intermedia, is the gene inherited from *both* parents, or only one?
My 3yr old daughter has an Alpha thalassemia trait which i found she inherited from me. We're the same blood type could that have been the reason?
Ive been diagnosed with beta minor thalassemia and my doctor told me that i am only a carrier of the disease(inherited from my mother). I have no lack of iron but i often may feel a little tiredness,so can folic acid or vitamin b make me feel better?
How common is thalassemia?
Didn't find what you're looking for?
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your questionMore of what we treat
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.
HIPAASecure
SOC 2 Type 2Certified
JCAHOAccredited
Download HealthTap
Video visit and message your doctor
