Thalassemia Syndromes in Pregnancy

Thalassemia syndromes are becoming more common in the United States as the population becomes more diverse. To provide appropriate care to this patient population, nurses must know that thalassemia syndromes are classified into two main types, α-thalassemia and β-thalassemia. α-Thalassemia is further delineated into four clinical patterns: silent carrier state, mild α-thalassemia, hemoglobin H disease, and hydrops fetalis. Understanding each of these complex anemias and their potential effects on a pregnant woman and her fetus will enable nurses to interpret these women's unique laboratory test results. Intervention when necessary with appropriate treatment may lead to optimal outcomes for women and newborns.