Hematological changes in children suffering from beta thalassemia In Babylon Governorate

Abstract EN

This study was designated to investigate the changes that occurs in certain blood characteristics in beta thalassemia minor and major .The total number used was 300,150 healthy children and 150 suffering from beta thalassemia.

Their ages (1 – 14 years old ) were divided into four age groups ( 1 -< 3 years ; >3 – 5 years ; >5 - 10 years and >10 – 14 years ).Hematological changes ,covered red blood cells(RBCs) count and hemoglobin concentration (Hb) in both types of beta thalassemia were significant (P<0.01 )decrease than control subject.

The values of packed cell volume (PCV)in two types of beta thalasemia showed significant (P<0.05 )decrease than control subject.

RBCs indices (MCV and MCH ) showed a significant (P<0.05) decrease when compared to control subject, while MCHC showed no significant difference.

Osmotic fragility of RBCs showed a significant decrease (P<0.01 )in two types of beta thalassemia when compared to control subject.Concerning hemoglobin electrophoresis in both types of beta thalassemia.

The values of HbA showed significant decrease (P<0.01)than control subject.

As well as a significant difference (P<0.05) in HbA values recorded between beta thalassemia minor and major.

Values of HbA2 and HbF showed significant (P<0.05) higher concentration than control subject.It has also been found that there is significant difference (P<0.05 ) in HbF values between the two types of beta thalassemia.

Changes may be attributed to the decrease or absence of biosynthesis of beta globin chains which lead to severe hemolytic anemia and severe hypoxia.