"How is Mediterranean Anemia Treated?"

Thalassemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Thalassemia is an anemia caused by genetic defects, specifically related to the deletion or mutation of the globin peptide chain genes responsible for hemoglobin production. This leads to reduced or absent synthesis of globin peptide chains. For mild cases of thalassemia, management may involve dietary adjustments, oxygen therapy, and medication. However, in severe cases or those with significant complications such as hypersplenism or hemolytic crises, aggressive blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy are necessary.

1. Dietary Management

Patients with thalassemia should maintain a balanced diet, emphasizing vitamins and proteins. Eggs, fish, and lean meats are recommended. Processed foods like chips should be avoided, as well as spicy and irritating foods like spinach, celery, and hot spices, to prevent digestive discomfort and diarrhea.

2. Oxygen Therapy

Mild thalassemia patients can benefit from consuming oxygen-rich foods like pig liver, pig blood, and chicken liver, or folate-rich foods like asparagus, rape flowers, and broccoli, which may help improve anemia to some extent.

3. Medication

Severe thalassemia patients require iron chelation therapy as prescribed by their physicians. This removes excessive iron from the body, enhancing hemoglobin synthesis. Drugs such as deferoxamine and deferiprone may be used. For those with significantly inhibited erythropoiesis, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may be an option.

4. Blood Transfusion

In cases with severe complications, blood transfusions are crucial to sustain life. However, they do not cure thalassemia but only alleviate symptoms. Additionally, symptomatic treatment is essential, including rest, avoiding fatigue, and preventing infections.