What are the types of hemoglobin primarily involved in thalassemia?

In thalassemia, the primary types of hemoglobin involved are Hemoglobin A (Hb A), Hemoglobin F (Hb F), and Hemoglobin A2 (Hb A2). Individuals with thalassemia typically exhibit an imbalance in the production of the different globin chains that make up hemoglobin, leading to a deficiency in either alpha or beta globin.

In beta-thalassemia, for instance, there is reduced production of beta chains, resulting in an increased concentration of Hb F, which consists of two alpha and two gamma chains, and elevated levels of Hb A2, which is made up of two alpha and two delta chains. Hb A is the standard form of hemoglobin, comprising two alpha and two beta chains, and is generally decreased in thalassemia.

Consequently, the combination of these three forms helps to characterize and diagnose the various types of thalassemia, reflecting the underlying pathophysiology. The presence of higher levels of Hb F and Hb A2, along with the relative decrease in Hb A, is instrumental in the monitoring and management of thalassemia patients.

Other hemoglobin types, such as Hb E, Hb S, Hb C, and others mentioned in