Thalassemia Intermedia: Understanding the Condition & Symptoms

Thalassemia intermedia is an inherited hemoglobinopathy causing reduced but not absent production of hemoglobin. It is less severe than thalassemia major (Cooley’s anemia).

Genetics

Autosomal recessive (most common) or occasionally autosomal dominant mutations in globin genes.

Clinical Features

• Anemia – fatigue, pallor, dyspnea, dizziness.
• Splenomegaly & hepatomegaly – compensatory extramedullary hematopoiesis.
• Bone changes – marrow expansion causing pain, deformities.
• Jaundice – from increased bilirubin due to hemolysis.

Management

• Intermittent transfusions (not chronic like major)
• Hydroxyurea to stimulate fetal hemoglobin
• Folic acid supplementation
• Splenectomy in severe cases

With monitoring and appropriate care, many patients lead near-normal lives.