Thalassemia: the facts and the controversies.

In the United States, we continue to struggle with and make progress in the treatment of thalassemia. As our culture becomes more diverse, we will likely see more thalassemia in our pediatric populations. Currently, all newborns in the United States are screened for hemoglobinopathies. If a newborn screen returns with large amounts of fetal hemoglobin, alpha hemoglobin, or hemoglobin E, further investigation for thalassemia takes place. This article refreshes knowledge for those not immediately familiar with the red blood cell diseases and presents ethical controversies in care. The Cooley's Anemia Foundation Web site (www.cooleysanemia.org) provides a wealth of information for those with additional interests.