| The thalassemias are a group of inherited hematological disorders caused by defects in the synthesis of one or more of the hemoglobin (Hb) chains.1 β-Thalassemia is caused by reduced or absent synthesis of ß-globin chains. α-Thalassemia is caused by reduced or absent synthesis of α-globin chains. Globin-chain imbalances cause hemolysis and impair erythropoiesis. |
