Thalassemia and pregnancy complications

Abstract

Thalassemia is a blood disorder passed down through families (inherited) in which the body makes an abnormal form or inadequate amount of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. The disorder results in large numbers of red blood cells being destroyed, which leads to anemia. This abnormal alpha- to beta-chain ratio causes the unpaired chains to precipitate and causes destruction of red blood cell precursors in the bone marrow (ineffective erythropoiesis) and circulation (hemolysis). Affected individuals with thalassemia have variable degrees of anemia and extramedullary hematopoiesis, which in turn can cause bone changes, impaired growth, and iron overload. Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), also known as recurrent miscarriages, is defined by the consecutive loss of two or more pregnancies with the same partner and having no more than one living child. Objective of the current review was to determine the maternal and fetal outcomes of women complicated with thalassemia .Conclusion: There are many changes as complications of thalassemia and the stress of pregnancy can make the symptoms of thalassemia worse . pregnancy in thalassemia should be considered high risk and should always be preceded by a complete preconception assessment.