Laboratory Findings in Alpha Thalassemia: Hematology

Alpha Thalassemia Minor

Anemia is mild to absent.
RBC count is increased.
Hb is slightly decreased.
MCV is decreased.
MCHC is slightly decreased.
RDW is normal to slightly increased.
Red Blood Cell morphology shows slight hypochromic microcytosis.
Reticulocytes are normal to slightly increased.
Hb electrophoresis demonstrates a normal pattern in adults:

Hb A - 97-98%
Hb A2 - 1-2.5%
Hb F - <1%.
Neonates have 5-15% Bart's Hemoglobin (gamma chain tetramers).
Hb H inclusions are rarely seen.
Bone marrow demonstrates erythroid hyperplasia.

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