ALPHA THALASSEMIA Meaning and
Definition
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Alpha thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by a reduced synthesis of alpha globin chains, crucial components of hemoglobin that carries oxygen in red blood cells. This condition primarily affects individuals of African, Southeast Asian, Chinese, or Mediterranean descent.
In normal circumstances, the alpha thalassemia trait is caused by the deletion or mutation of one or two alpha globin genes out of the four present in an individual's genetic makeup. However, in more severe cases such as hemoglobin H disease or alpha thalassemia major, there may be a loss or inactivation of three or all four alpha globin genes. This results in a reduced quantity of functional alpha globin chains, impairing the production and stability of hemoglobin.
The manifestations of alpha thalassemia range in severity depending on the number of gene deletions or mutations, with individuals possessing one or two affected genes usually displaying mild or no symptoms. However, those with a more severe form may experience symptoms such as anemia, fatigue, pale skin, jaundice, enlargement of the spleen, growth retardation, bone deformities, and difficulty breathing.
Diagnosis of alpha thalassemia involves blood tests to analyze the hemoglobin levels as well as genetic testing to identify the specific gene mutations or deletions. Treatment typically revolves around managing symptoms and complications, with options including blood transfusions, iron chelation therapy, and folic acid supplements. In severe cases, bone marrow transplantation may be considered as a potential cure.
Overall, alpha thalassemia is a genetic disorder characterized by a reduced production of alpha globin chains, leading to various degrees of anemia and other associated symptoms.
Common Misspellings for ALPHA THALASSEMIA
- zlpha thalassemia
- slpha thalassemia
- wlpha thalassemia
- qlpha thalassemia
- akpha thalassemia
- appha thalassemia
- aopha thalassemia
- aloha thalassemia
- allha thalassemia
- al-ha thalassemia
- al0ha thalassemia
- alpga thalassemia
- alpba thalassemia
- alpna thalassemia
- alpja thalassemia
- alpua thalassemia
- alpya thalassemia
- alphz thalassemia
- alphs thalassemia
- alphw thalassemia
Etymology of ALPHA THALASSEMIA
The word "alpha Thalassemia" is derived from two sources: the Greek letter "alpha" (Α) and the medical term "Thalassemia".
1. Alpha: In the Greek alphabet, "alpha" (Α) is the first letter. It ultimately comes from the Phoenician letter "aleph", which meant "ox". Over time, the shape of the letter changed, and it took on the sound "a" in Greek. In medical terminology, "alpha" is often used to designate the first or primary form of a condition or disease.
2. Thalassemia: The term "Thalassemia" originates from the Greek word "thalasso" (θάλασσα), meaning "sea" or "the sea". This is combined with the Greek word "haima" (αἷμα), meaning "blood".
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