A 1-year-old girl is brought to the pediatrician by her parents due to poor growth and skeletal abnormalities. Laboratory investigations show microcytic anemia and higher concentration of hemoglobin A2.
Which is the most likely diagnosis?
A- Sickle cell anemia
B- β-thalassemia
C- Lead poisoning
D- Iron deficiency
Answer
β-thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder that has defective production of hemoglobin. Beta thalassemia indicates decreased production of hemoglobin and confirmed by the high level of hemoglobin A2. Children suffering from β-thalassemia tend to present poor growth, skeletal abnormalities and severe anemia particularly during the first two years of life.
The correct answer is B