Sonographic Findings in Fetal Alpha Thalassemia Major

Alpha thalassemia major is an autosomal recessive disease found mostly in Southern Chinese and Southeast Asians. It is caused by deletion of alpha globin genes. Normally, there are four alpha genes. 1 Some cases lead to lifelong dependence on transfusions, with iron buildup and shortened life duration. Depending on the number of genes affected, the fetus may die in utero or very soon after birth. 2