Can Couples With MCV >= 80, MCH<26, HbA2<3.2, HbF<3 be Classified as Low-risk beta-Thalassemia Group?

摘要

Background and Aim: Thalassemia screening instructions in Iran categorizes couples with mean corpuscular volume (MCV)=75 to 80, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)=26 to 27, hemoglobin A2 (HbA2) = 80 and MCH >= 26 including 3 cases (0.05%) with concurrent alpha and beta-thalassemia mutations and 7 cases (0.12%) with HbS mutations. Altogether, 553 subjects (9.83%) had MCV >= 80 and MCH = 80, MCH<26, HbA2<3.2, and HbF<3 cell blood count indices could be grouped as low-risk couples if normal HbA2 and HbF values are considered. The results of this study also indicate that there is a chance of missing concurrent alpha and beta-thalassemia or HbS hemoglobinopathies in the current screening program given the fact that genetic testing is not considered for couples with MCV and MCH in the low-risk range. HbF testing could be conducted to prevent these missing cases.