Beta Thalassaemia Minor

[Dr Richard Stitson]

Minor Thalassaemia (Beta) is the term used to describe heterozygotes  
for Beta Thalassaemia (ie one normal gene, one abnormal gene). Rather 
than the severe symptoms of "major" thalassaemia, minors usually cope 
ok except when stressed eg during pregnancy.
Obviously light headedness can be a symptom of anaemia - although 
symtoms shouldn't normally occur with a Hb of >11.
As for test reults, you would expect Hb 9-11, MCV <75, increased HbA2 
as you described.
Hope this info is satisfactory.

Richard Stitson