The current status of β-thalassemia major in Mainland China

Hemoglobin. 2013;37(4):307-14. doi: 10.3109/03630269.2013.789967. Epub 2013 Apr 18.

Abstract

β-Thalassemia (β-thal) is caused by a decrease in the production of β-globin chains that is a genetic disorder worldwide. The diagnosis of β-thal major (β-TM) depends on clinical manifestations, laboratory investigations, family history and genetic analysis. Patients with β-TM require long-term blood transfusion and chelation therapy. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only strategy for curing this disease. Many patients with β-TM cannot get regular diagnosis and treatment in developing countries. With economic improvement and medical technology development, a great progress has been made in Mainland China. In this study, we describe the current status of diagnosis and treatment of β-thal in Mainland China.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • China
  • Humans
  • beta-Thalassemia / diagnosis*
  • beta-Thalassemia / therapy*