الفهرس 
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Abstract
Thalassemia is a heterogeneous group of congenital hemoglobinopathies caused by mutations in the globin gene complex that result in an imbalance in globin synthesis.
Screening for -thalassaemia is difficult, mainly because of heterogeneity of -thalassaemia and the absence of a single pathognomonic finding to cover all variants. Despite these difficulties, many attempts have been made to establish screening tests and to aid in the differentiation of various forms of microcytic anaemia, especially the most common, iron deficiency anaemia.
The present work aimed to evaluate the prevalence of β-thalassemia carrier among temporary deferred voluntary blood donors due to anemia using the combination of MCV, HbA2 level by column chromatography and serum ferritin level.
The prevalence of β-thalassemia carriers is increasing more than we expected that creates a real national health problem in Egypt. A carrier number of 22 from 100 temporary deferred anaemic blood donors were detected in this study, 18-45 years. This higher rate was detected in El-Menia governorate might denote the higher rate of consanguinity.
So, we are recommending screening more number of deferred anemic blood donors at the blood banks in different areas in Egypt; this may be a tool to detect β-thalassemia carrier among this age group whom eligible for blood donation; and so should be permanently deferred from blood donation. This can be achieved through determination of MCV & Hb A2 for every temporary deferred blood donor due to anemia.
We should consider β-thalassemia trait before treatment of microcytic anemia and don’t rush into iron therapy, to avoid the harmful iron treatment in β-thalassemia carriers.
Those deferred anemic blood donors with microcytosis and borderline level of Hb A2 (3.3 – 3.5 %) should be investigated for iron assessment. If there is iron deficiency, they should be treated by iron supplementation, then Hb A2 is re-estimated again as the level of Hb A2 is decreased by iron deficiency.
Screening for β-thalassemia carriers in premarital screening program especially in consanguineous marriage, in an effort to reduce incidence of more seriously affected children.
Establishment of new thalassemia centers for adoption of a community-based prevention program, including education (Public awareness of thalassemia), population screening (starting with the families of thalassemic patients), genetic counseling, and prenatal diagnosis; and the care of thalassemia patients allover Egypt with adequate supply of blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy.