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Alpha Thalassemias

Four genes (two from each parent) are needed to make enough alpha globin protein chains. If one or more of the genes is missing, you will have alpha thalassemia trait or disease. This means that you don't make enough alpha globin protein.

* If you have only one missing gene, you're a silent carrier and won't have any signs of illness.

* If you have two missing genes, you have alpha thalassemia trait (also called alpha thalassemia minor). You may have mild anemia.

* If you have three missing genes, you likely will have hemoglobin H disease (which a blood test can detect). This form of thalassemia causes moderate to severe anemia.

Very rarely, a baby will have all four genes missing. This condition is called alpha thalassemia major or hydrops fetalis. Babies with hydrops fetalis usually die before or shortly after birth.
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