Do I Need to Visit the Hospital for Thalassemia Testing?

Do I need to go to the hospital for a check-up for thalassemia?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if there are any issues with my blood test results from my health check-up.
My white blood cell count (WBC) is 8.03 k/µL, red blood cell count (RBC) is 5.91 m/µL, hemoglobin (Hgb) is 13.2 g/dL, hematocrit (Ht) is 42.3%, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is 68.5 fL (during military examination) and 71.6 fL (during school entrance health check), and platelet count (PLT) is 174.
The other test results are similar, so I didn't list them, but the mean corpuscular volume is relatively low.
The health check report indicates a possible suspicion of thalassemia trait or iron deficiency anemia.
However, I have never experienced any physiological symptoms commonly associated with anemia (such as dizziness, fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, or decreased exercise tolerance) since I was born and I am now 23 years old.
Therefore, I would like to ask if these data indicate any issues? Do I need to go to the hospital for further examination to check for anemia? Thank you.

FF123, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/02

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, currently there is no anemia observed.
If there is thalassemia, it appears to be very mild and should be monitored.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/08/02

More Info

When it comes to thalassemia testing, it's essential to understand the implications of your blood test results and the symptoms you may or may not be experiencing. Based on the information you've provided, your complete blood count (CBC) shows some parameters that could suggest a potential issue, particularly with the average red blood cell volume (MCV) being on the lower side.

Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder characterized by the body’s inability to produce sufficient hemoglobin, which is crucial for carrying oxygen in the blood. The condition can lead to anemia, which is often diagnosed through specific blood tests. In your case, the average MCV of 68.5 fl (femtoliters) is indeed lower than the normal range, which typically falls between 80-100 fl for adults. This could indicate microcytic anemia, which is often associated with iron deficiency or thalassemia.

However, you mentioned that you have not experienced any of the common symptoms associated with anemia, such as dizziness, fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath. This is an important factor to consider. Many individuals with mild forms of thalassemia or iron deficiency may remain asymptomatic, especially if their body has adapted to lower hemoglobin levels over time.

Given that your health check report suggests a possible thalassemia trait or iron deficiency anemia, it would be prudent to follow up with further testing. While your current blood results do not show overt signs of anemia, the low MCV warrants further investigation. A visit to a healthcare provider for additional tests, such as a hemoglobin electrophoresis, can help determine if you have thalassemia or another type of anemia. This test specifically measures the different types of hemoglobin in your blood and can confirm the presence of thalassemia.

In addition to hemoglobin electrophoresis, your doctor may recommend tests for serum ferritin and iron studies to assess your iron levels. These tests will help differentiate between thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia, as the treatment and management strategies differ significantly.

It's also worth noting that thalassemia is inherited, so if you have a family history of the disorder, this could increase your risk. If you are considering starting a family in the future, knowing your thalassemia status could be important for genetic counseling.

In conclusion, while your current blood test results do not indicate immediate concern, the low MCV and the suggestion of possible thalassemia or iron deficiency anemia merit further investigation. Visiting a healthcare provider for additional testing is advisable to ensure that any underlying issues are identified and managed appropriately. Early detection and management can help prevent potential complications in the future.

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