HEMOGLOBIN BARTS HYDROPS FETALIS SYNDROME IN AN INFANT OF GREEK ORIGIN AND PRENATAL DIAGNOSIS OF ALPHA-THALASSEMIA

An unusual case of Bart's hydrops fetalis is reported where the patient was born to parents of Greek origin. An exchange transfusion was given. Adult haemoglobin (HbA) was present in addition to Hb Bart's and Hb Portland A low level of synthesis of α-chains was evident. The mother presented again in a subsequent pregnancy for prenatal diagnosis of thalassemia. The fetus was diagnosed as an α-thalassemia carrier, a diagnosis which was confirmed at birth. The nature of α-thalassemia in the family is discussed.