Can This Blood Test Indicate Mediterranean Anemia? - Cardiology

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Based on the blood test results you provided, let's analyze the key components to determine whether they indicate Mediterranean anemia, also known as thalassemia.

1. Red Blood Cell Count (RBC): Your RBC count is 5.77 million/uL, which is within the normal range for adults (typically around 4.7 to 6.1 million/uL for men and 4.2 to 5.4 million/uL for women). This suggests that you have a sufficient number of red blood cells.

2. Hemoglobin (Hb): Your hemoglobin level is 13.9 g/dL, which is also within the normal range (generally 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men and 12.0 to 15.5 g/dL for women). This indicates that your blood is carrying an adequate amount of oxygen.

3. Hematocrit (Hct): At 42.5%, your hematocrit is within the normal range (typically 38.3% to 48.6% for men and 35.5% to 44.9% for women). This further supports that your red blood cell volume is normal.

4. Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): Your MCV is 73.7 fL, which is below the normal range (80 to 100 fL). A low MCV indicates microcytic anemia, which is often seen in conditions like iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia.

5. Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH): Your MCH is 24.1 pg, which is also low (normal range is approximately 27 to 31 pg). This reinforces the possibility of microcytic anemia.

6. Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC): At 32.7 g/dL, your MCHC is within the normal range (32 to 36 g/dL), indicating that the concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells is adequate.

7. Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW): Your RDW is 33.8%, which is elevated (normal range is typically 11.5% to 14.5%). An increased RDW suggests a variation in red blood cell size, which can occur in various types of anemia, including thalassemia.

8. Hemoglobin A2 (HbA2): Your HbA2 level is 2.1%. In thalassemia, particularly beta-thalassemia, the HbA2 level is often elevated (greater than 3.5%). A normal HbA2 level suggests that beta-thalassemia is less likely.

9. Ferritin and Iron Studies: Your ferritin level is 38.56 ng/mL, which is within the normal range, indicating that your iron stores are adequate. The serum iron level of 64 µg/dL and total iron-binding capacity (TIBC) of 395 µg/dL also suggest that iron deficiency is not the cause of your anemia.

In summary, while your low MCV and MCH, along with elevated RDW, suggest the presence of microcytic anemia, the normal HbA2 level makes beta-thalassemia less likely. Additionally, your iron studies indicate that iron deficiency is not a contributing factor.
Given these results, it is important to consider other forms of microcytic anemia, such as alpha-thalassemia or other genetic conditions. A definitive diagnosis may require further testing, including hemoglobin electrophoresis, which can provide more detailed information about the types of hemoglobin present in your blood.

If you have a family history of thalassemia or related conditions, or if you are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or pallor, it would be advisable to consult with a hematologist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate testing to clarify your diagnosis and guide any necessary treatment.