Alpha-Thalassemia in North Morocco: Prevalence and Molecular Spectrum

Abstract EN

Unlike the other hemoglobinopathies, few researches have been published concerning α-thalassemia in Morocco.

The epidemiological features and the mutation spectrum of this disease are still unknown.

This regional newborn screening is the first to study α-thalassemia in the north of Morocco.

During the period from January 2015 to December 2016, 1658 newborns umbilical blood samples were investigated.

Suspected newborns were screened for α-globin defects using Gap-PCR and Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification technique.

The prevalence of α-thalassemia, its mutation spectrum, and its allelic frequencies were described for the first time in Morocco.

Six different α-globin genetic disorders were detected in 16 neonates.

This screening valued the prevalence of α-thalassemia in the studied population at 0.96% and showed the wide mutation spectrum and the heterogeneous geographical distribution of the disease.

A high rate of carriers was observed in Laouamra, a rural commune in Larache province.

Heterogeneity of α-globin alleles in Morocco explains the high variability of α-thalassemia severity.

This diversity reflects the anthropological history of the country.

These results would contribute to the prevention of thalassemia in Morocco directing the design of a nationwide screening strategy and awareness campaign.