Condition
Pediatric Thalassemia
What You Need to Know
Thalassemia is an inherited disorder that affects how the body makes hemoglobin, which is a type of protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues in the body. There are two types of thalassemia: Alpha Thalassemia and Beta Thalassemia (Cooley's Anemia).
Key Symptoms
The symptoms may vary depending on what type of thalassemia your child is diagnosed with. Common symptoms may include:
- Feeling tired
- Dark urine
- Jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin
Diagnosis
Doctors typically diagnose thalassemia by:
- Performing a physical examination
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Peripheral smear
- Hemoglobin electrophoresis
- Iron studies
- DNA testing
Treatment
Treatment will depend on the type and severity of thalassemia. If treatment is required, it may include:
- Blood transfusions
- Medication
- Stem cell or cord blood transplant
- Removal of the spleen
Schedule an Appointment
Our pediatric specialists provide personalized care for your child’s physical, mental and emotional health needs. Meet the providers and schedule an appointment today.
Thalassemia is an inherited disorder that affects the production of normal hemoglobin. Thalassemia includes a number of different forms of anemia. The severity and type of anemia depends upon the number of genes that are affected.
Listed in the directory below, you will find additional information regarding two different types of thalassemia, for which we have provided a brief overview:
Meet the Providers Who Treat Thalassemia
Departments that Treat Thalassemia
Pediatric Allogeneic Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program
Patients in need of highly-specialized BMT therapy can expect compassionate care and innovative treatment from our specially-trained team.
