Defining Thalassemias

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Beta Thalassemia. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

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Defining Thalassemias

Thalassemias are part of a group of quantitative hemoglobin synthesis disorders in which a defect exists in the rate of production of one or more of the globin chains. This defect results from either a heterozygous or homozygous deletion or inactivation of a globin chain gene.

Thalassemias are named according to the affected gene or the globin chain that is showing reduced or absent synthesis.

Globin chain loci are found on:

  • chromosome 11 (beta, delta, epsilon, and gamma)
  • chromosome 16 (alpha, and zeta)