Thalassemia is a genetic disorder in which the body makes an abnormal form or inadequate amount of hemoglobin, which causes severe anemia. Whenever there is inadequate hemoglobin, enough oxygen cannot reach all parts of the body. There are two types of thalassemia - alpha thalassemia and beta thalassemia.

The symptoms of thalassemia depend upon type and severity of disease. General symptoms include fatigue, weakness, pale or yellow skin, and dark urine. There is increased risk of infections,iron overload symptoms resulting in damage to heart, liver and endocrine system; enlarged spleen, slow growth, bone deformities, cardiovascular problems like congestive heart failure and arrhythmia.

Thalassemia is a genetic disorder which is caused by mutations in DNA of cells that make hemoglobin. These mutations are inherited from parents. Abnormal form or inadequate amount of hemoglobin in thalassemia leads to severe anemia and complications associated with it.

Diagnosis of thalassemia is made by following
- Detailed history taking
-Signs and symptoms
-Complete blood count, reticulocyte count
-Hemoglobin electrophoresis
-Genetic testing
-Iron studies

Thalassemia is associated with complications like
-Infections
-Iron overload
-Bone deformities
-Slow growth
-Splenomegaly
-Congestive heart failure