What is the difference between Alpha Thalassemia and Beta Thalassemia?

Thalassemia refers to a group of inherited disorders in which the amount of hemoglobin produced in the body is greatly reduced. It occurs due to a defect in the synthesis of hemoglobin chains. There are two main types of thalassemia: Alpha and beta-thalassemia.

Alpha thalassemia occurs as a result of the deletion of the alpha-globin genes, which leads to a decrease in the synthesis of alpha-globin. There are two alpha genes, if one is deleted, it is known as Alpha +, if both genes are knocked out, it is known as Alpha 0.

Beta thalassemia occurs when there is a mutation of the beta gene, which leads to reduce the production of beta-globin. When there is a partial loss, it is known as Beta +, but when there is a complete loss of function, it is known as Beta 0 thalassemias.

Alpha Thalassemia is the condition wherein there is a reduction or the absence of alpha globin chains. Beta Thalassemia refers to the lack or the absence of the beta globin chains. It should be noted that Thalassemia is not just one disease. This is considered more as a disorder that is related to the production of hemoglobin.

Hemoglobin is considered to be important because it is in charge of making sure that red blood cells will carry oxygen to different parts of the body. There are different consequences that may occur depending on the type of thalassemia that is being experienced by people. This should be checked by the doctor immediately for potential treatments.