Which term describes anemia caused by defective synthesis of hemoglobin?

Which term describes anemia caused by defective synthesis of hemoglobin?

• A. Aplastic anemia
• B. Iron deficiency anemia
• C. Sideroblastic anemia
• D. Thalassemia

Answer: (D)

Defective synthesis of hemoglobin points to thalassemias. In thalassemias, the amount of one globin chain (alpha or beta) is reduced or absent, causing an imbalance in globin production. This disruption leads to abnormal hemoglobin formation, microcytosis, hypochromia, and ineffective erythropoiesis, all contributing to anemia. Iron deficiency anemia results from a lack of iron needed for heme, not a problem with globin chain production. Sideroblastic anemia involves a defect in heme synthesis within mitochondria, often with ring sideroblasts. Aplastic anemia is bone marrow failure causing pancytopenia and does not specifically involve defective hemoglobin synthesis.

Defective synthesis of hemoglobin points to thalassemias. In thalassemias, the amount of one globin chain (alpha or beta) is reduced or absent, causing an imbalance in globin production. This disruption leads to abnormal hemoglobin formation, microcytosis, hypochromia, and ineffective erythropoiesis, all contributing to anemia.

Iron deficiency anemia results from a lack of iron needed for heme, not a problem with globin chain production. Sideroblastic anemia involves a defect in heme synthesis within mitochondria, often with ring sideroblasts. Aplastic anemia is bone marrow failure causing pancytopenia and does not specifically involve defective hemoglobin synthesis.