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Sickle Cell Beta Thalassemia DiseaseWhat is Sickle Cell Beta Thalassemia Disease?Sickle cell beta thalassemia (Hb S/ß Th) is an inherited form of sickle cell disease that affects red blood cells. The most common types of sickle cell disease are SS, SC and S beta thalassemia. Hemoglobin S beta thalassemia disease is the most common sickle cell syndrome seen in people of Mediterranean descent. However, it is also common in people whose families are from Africa, South or Central America, the Caribbean Islands and the Middle East. A person with sickle cell beta thalassemia disease has red blood cells that sickle due to the hemoglobin S gene, and other red blood cells that are small, pale and misshapen due to the beta thalassemia gene. The severity of the disease varies because the beta thalassemia gene may still produce a small amount of normal hemoglobin. If the gene produces a small amount of normal hemoglobin, b+ thalassemia, individuals have milder symptoms. However, if the beta thalassemia gene produces no normal hemoglobin, b0 thalassemia, the condition is identical to sickle cell disease. Individuals with sickle cell beta thalassemia may have medical problems that include anemia (low hemoglobin), crises (painful episodes), organ damage, infections, lung problems, leg ulcers, bone damage and strokes. Sickle cell beta thalassemia disease is a lifelong condition and requires lifelong treatment. What is Hemoglobin?
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The couple also has a 25 percent chance of having a child with regular hemoglobin (AA) and a 50 percent chance of having a child with a hemoglobin trait like the parents. It is recommended that people who carry a hemoglobin trait meet with a genetic counselor to obtain more information.  |
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