It is a type of Anemia due to due to decreased synthesis of Globin chains of Hemoglobin.

It is a type of Microcytic Anemia where RBCs size is less , MCV <80 um3.

Carriers are protected against Plasmodium Falciparum Malaria ( CNS malaria ) .

Types 1. Alpha Thalassemia

It is due to gene deletion. Normally Alpha genes are present on chromosome 16.

2. Beta Thalassemia

It is due to gene Mutations, Present on chromosome 11.

Beta Thalassemia major is most severe form.

Clinical Feature

Growth retardation is major manifest.

Treatment

Repeat Blood Transfusions treats Anemia and reduce Skeletal Abnormalities but causes Systemic Iron overload, causing Secondary Hemochromatosis.