Anemia: Is It Mediterranean and Can It Be Inherited?

Anemia issues

I recently went to the hospital for a blood test.
My red blood cell count is 5.01, hemoglobin is 12.8, hematocrit is 39.9, mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is 79.6 (normal range: 80.4-95.9), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is 25.5 (normal range: 27.2-33.5), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is 32.
Both the MCV and MCH are lower than normal.
Could this indicate thalassemia? My mother was not diagnosed with thalassemia when she gave birth to me; she was only diagnosed with mild thalassemia later in life.
Is this condition hereditary? Thank you, doctor.

Lubi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/19

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, your hemoglobin level is 12.8, and both the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) are relatively low, which may indicate mild thalassemia.
It is advisable to visit a hematology clinic for further examination.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2018/03/19

More Info

Understanding anemia, particularly in the context of Mediterranean anemia, also known as thalassemia, involves recognizing its hereditary nature and the implications of blood test results. Based on the blood test results you provided, it appears that you have some indicators that could suggest a form of anemia, but further evaluation is necessary to determine if it is indeed Mediterranean anemia.

What is Mediterranean Anemia (Thalassemia)?
Mediterranean anemia, or thalassemia, is a genetic blood disorder characterized by reduced production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. There are two main types of thalassemia: alpha and beta, depending on which part of the hemoglobin molecule is affected. Individuals with thalassemia may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and more severe complications in cases of major thalassemia.

Your Blood Test Results
Your blood test results indicate:
- Red Blood Cell Count (RBC): 5.01 million cells/mcL (normal range)
- Hemoglobin (Hgb): 12.8 g/dL (slightly low for some populations)
- Hematocrit (Hct): 39.9% (normal range)
- Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): 79.6 fL (low, indicating microcytic anemia)
- Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH): 25.5 pg (low, indicating hypochromic anemia)
- Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC): 32 g/dL (normal range)
The low MCV and MCH suggest that your red blood cells are smaller and contain less hemoglobin than normal, which is characteristic of microcytic anemia. This can be caused by several factors, including iron deficiency or thalassemia. Given your family history of mild thalassemia, it is plausible that you may also have inherited this condition.

Hereditary Nature of Thalassemia
Thalassemia is indeed inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. This means that both parents must carry the gene for thalassemia for a child to inherit the condition. If your mother has mild thalassemia, it is possible that you inherited a similar genetic trait. However, the severity of the condition can vary significantly among individuals, even within the same family.

Next Steps
1. Genetic Testing: If you suspect thalassemia, a genetic test can confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type (alpha or beta thalassemia). This can also provide insight into the likelihood of passing the condition to future children.

2. Consultation with a Hematologist: It would be beneficial to consult with a hematologist who specializes in blood disorders. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, including additional tests such as iron studies, hemoglobin electrophoresis, and possibly a complete blood count (CBC) to assess your overall blood health.

3. Monitoring and Management: If diagnosed with thalassemia, management may include regular monitoring of blood counts, potential iron supplementation (if iron deficiency is also present), and education on lifestyle adjustments to manage symptoms.

Conclusion
In summary, while your blood test results show some indicators of anemia, further evaluation is necessary to determine if you have Mediterranean anemia. Given your family history, it is advisable to pursue genetic testing and consult with a specialist to understand your condition better and discuss potential implications for inheritance. Understanding your blood health is crucial for managing any symptoms and ensuring a good quality of life.

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