Best Thalassemia Doctors in Delhi

Thalassemia is a hereditary blood disorder, which results from the body's inability to produce normal haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. The lack of normal haemoglobin leads to anaemia, making it harder for the body's tissues and organs to function effectively. This condition can be categorised into two main types, alpha and beta Thalassemia, based on the part of haemoglobin affected by the genetic mutation.

In Delhi, Thalassemia is a significant health concern. An increasing number of people seek advice from Thalassemia specialists and doctors due to their family history or potential risk factors. The best Thalassemia treatment doctors are available at Apollo Hospitals Delhi, ensuring the highest standard of care for patients battling this condition.

Types/Stages of Thalassemia

Thalassemia presents in various forms, each with unique features:

• Alpha Thalassemia: This type occurs when one or more of the four alpha-chain genes are mutated. Its severity depends on how many genes are affected.

• Beta Thalassemia: This develops when one or both beta-chain genes are mutated. The severity varies from minor (one gene affected) to major (both genes affected), also known as Cooley's anaemia.

• Haemoglobin H Disease: A severe form of Alpha Thalassemia that results in lifelong anaemia.

• Haemoglobin H-Constant Spring: This is a variant of Haemoglobin H disease with slightly different mutations.

Symptoms of Thalassemia

The symptoms of thalassemia can vary from person to person and by the type of the condition. They include:

• Fatigue and weakness, due to anaemia

• Yellowish or pale skin, symptomatic of jaundice

• Facial bone deformities and slow growth in children

• Dark urine is a sign of liver problems

• Chest pain and breathing difficulties

Tests to Diagnose Thalassemia

Doctors for Thalassemia treatment may use several types for diagnosis:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): This checks the number of red blood cells and their characteristics.

• Haemoglobin Electrophoresis: This identifies the type of haemoglobin one has.

• Genetic Testing: This detects any mutations in genes that produce haemoglobin.

• Prenatal Testing: For pregnant women, tests like amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling can identify fetal thalassemia.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Thalassemia at Apollo Hospitals Delhi

Doctors for Thalassemia treatment at Apollo Hospitals Delhi offer a comprehensive range of treatment options for thalassemia, including:

• Blood Transfusions: Regular transfusions maintain normal haemoglobin levels and alleviate symptoms.

• Iron Chelation Therapy: To prevent organ damage from excess iron, caused by regular transfusions, medications are used to remove the surplus iron.

• Folic Acid Supplements: These help the body make healthy red blood cells.

• Bone Marrow Transplants: This curative treatment replaces faulty stem cells with healthy ones. However, it comes with risks and finding a suitable donor can be challenging.

• Splenectomy: In severe cases where the spleen is overactive or enlarged, surgical removal may be required.