CA
A 25-year-old member asked:
How can one inherit alpha thalassemia?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Robert Kwokanswered
Pediatrics 35 years experience
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. Mom and/or dad can carry the mutations. A child can inherit a mutation from mom, from dad, or from both mom and dad.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctoranswered
31 years experience
4 alpha genes...: It is a bit complicated given that there are 4 Alpha chain genes and Alpha thalassemia can involve mutations in one, two (in two different ways) or three genes (mutations in four genes is usually not compatible with life). For excellent website, see:
http://www.Stjude.Org/stjude/v/index.Jsp?Vgnextoid=d966885309c6f110vgnvcm1000001e0215acrcrd.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Mar 15, 2019
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 $15/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.