Thalassemia in Primary Care

Thalassemia's Spectrum and Management: A Talk for Primary Care Pediatricians

Pediatric hematologist-oncologist Ashutosh Lal, MD, describes thalassemia syndromes; discusses presentation and underlying genetics; and provides data on ethnic risk factors, with implications for care of immigrant populations. In this case-based talk, Lal reviews the value and limits of California’s screening program, offers step-by-step guidance on working up children with anemia, and offers help with understanding and investigating thalassemia trait.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe the prevalence of thalassemia in a multi-ethnic population
• List and explain laboratory procedures for the diagnosis of thalassemia
• Differentiate between thalassemia trait and the more severe forms of thalassemia