Diseases

Cooleys Anemia (Beta Thalassemia)

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Cooley's. Anemia, cooley's: better known today as thalassemia (or as beta thalassemia or thalassemia major). The clinical picture of this important type of anemia was first described in 1925 by the pediatrician thomas benton cooley. Another name for the disease is mediterranean anemia.

SYMPTOMS

People who have hemoglobin h disease or beta thalassemia major (also called cooley's anemia) have severe thalassemia. Signs and symptoms usually occur within the first 2 years of life. They may include severe anemia and other health problems, such as: a pale and listless appearance.

CAUSES

Thalassemia major or cooley's anemia. This is the most severe form of beta thalassemia in which the complete lack of beta protein in the hemoglobin causes a life-threatening anemia that requires regular blood transfusions and extensive ongoing medical care.