[Changes of blood cell's morphological characteristics and their clinical significance].

The purpose of this article is the interpretation of the clinical value of blood cells' (erythrocytes, leukocytes, thrombocytes) morphological characteristics changes taking into the consideration results of our own long-term (1982-2012) investigations as well as literature data. Patients with hematological and nonhematological diseases as well as large groups of Georgia population (about 30.000 persons, in age 2-81) were observed.

Heterogeneity and gene-geography of β-thalassemia in Georgia.

Georgia is situated between 44° and 41° of Northern Width. This is an area which belongs to "Malarial zone" of the Earth. This country is characterized by peculiar geographic contrasts as well as by peculiar ethnic variety of population on the small territory.

Hematologic response to hydroxyurea therapy in children with beta-thalassemia major.

beta-thalassemia major is the most common monogenic hereditary blood disease in children. beta+-thalassemia major gene frequency in Georgia averages 0,019 (3,79% gene carriers). Hydroxyurea (HU) has been known to cause induction of fetal hemoglobin (HbF), but the efficacy of this treatment in beta-thalassemia patients is still unclear.