You have a new patient consult in clinic this morning. The referral packet includes the newborn screen report, which is flagged abnormal hemoglobinopathy screen, F, A, Bart's, refer to hematology, and a complete blood count done at 4 years of age with a hemoglobin of 10 g/dL and an MCV of 68. The pediatrician has informed the parents the child has some form of alpha thalassemia. The older brother had the same newborn screen results but had a normal complete blood count when checked. The mother wants to know why her second child has an abnormal complete blood count when she and her husband do not have any blood problems. How would you respond to the child's mother?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for correct answer A:
1. Both parents must be carriers for the child to have alpha thalassemia.
2. The child has an abnormal complete blood count, indicating a hemoglobinopathy.
3. The child inherited a trans-deletion genotype alpha thalassemia trait from both parents.
4. Silent carriers have no symptoms but can pass on the trait.
Summary for incorrect choices:
B: In cis deletion, both parents would have to pass on the trait, which is not the case here.
C: Spontaneous mutation is unlikely for alpha thalassemia.
D: Both parents having cis deletions would result in a more severe form of alpha thalassemia.