A 39-year-old member asked:
What type of mutation causes thalassemia?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. Lois A Freisleben-Cookanswered
Pediatrics 37 years experience
Hemoglobin: formation is affected in thalassemia. Mutation in one or both of the genes responsible for the production of hemoglobin proteins (alpha and beta globin) lead to decreased production of these proteins, decreased hemoglobin formation and resulting anemia.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
3.4k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 46-year-old member asked:
What type of mutation causes thalassemia minor?
1 doctor answer • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. James Ballanswered
Pediatric Hematology and Oncology 21 years experience
Many: Many mutations in beta-thal genes will cause a decreased production, rather than an absence of production. Inheritance of one f these genes will cause a thalassemia minor. In alpha-thalassemia, the inheritance of two mutations (out of four genes) can provide mild or no symptoms that are typical of thalassemia minor.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 23, 2018
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership
Disclaimer:
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.