Hemoglobin Beograd (alpha2beta2 121 Glu leads to Val) interacting with beta-thalassemia

Hematological and biochemical findings in a family with hemoglobin (Hb) Beograd interacting with beta-thalassemia are presented. Hb Beograd (alpha2beta2 121 Gul leads to Val) was found in 3 members. In two members it interacted with beta-thalassemia. These two double heterozygotes had anemia of intermediate severity and splenomegaly. Studies with 51Cr and 59Fe showed a shortened life span of red cells and ineffective erythropoiesis. The abnormal Hb amounted to 86-87%, and Hb F to 5-7%. No Hb A was present. One subject of the family was heterozygous for Hb Beograd. He showed normal clinical and hematological findings. The abnormal hemoglobin was 38%. Four members of the family were heterozygotes for beta-thalassemia. The interaction between beta-thalassemia and beta-chain variants is discussed.