Alpha thalassemia is a hereditary anaemia resulting from deficient synthesis of the alpha chains, causing a relative excess of beta chains which form tetramers identified as hemoglobin H (Hb H) in adults. To diagnose this type of anaemia it is essential to analyze the erythrocytic values, electrophoresis in neutral pH and to study the Hb H inclusion bodies. The aim of this study was to determine the hematologic profile of alpha thalassemia carriers from the southeastern and northeastern regions of Brazil. Peripheral blood samples from 1010 patients were analyzed. The erythrogram values, including the red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin level (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), mean cell volume (MCV), mean cell hemoglobin (MCH) and mean cell hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were supplied by automatic devices. To diagnose alpha thalassemia, screening and complementary tests were performed, including electrophoresis in neutral pH and a study of the Hb H inclusion bodies with brilliant blue cresil staining. Comparing hematologic values obtained in both groups, the indices with discrepant values were related to HGB and HCT and the greatest variations in both regions were observed among women. In alpha thalassemic phenotypic carriers from the northeastern region, all the erythrocytic values were lower than normal. These results show the necessity of better evaluation of alpha thalassemia in different regions, considering the environmental factors in order to give an adequate diagnosis.
Anaemias; alpha thalassemia; red blood cells
