[Management of beta-thalassemias in a developing country. Experience of a pediatric service in Oran (Algeria)].

The management of beta-thalassemia in a developing country faces a host of organizational, logistic, and funding problems. Experience acquired against this background of multiple deficiencies is reported here. Only 60% of children with documented beta-thalassemia were monitored more or less regularly.

Genetic factors involved in human G gamma and A gamma globin gene expression.

G gamma to A gamma globin ratios, haplotypes at the beta globin gene cluster and the C----T substitution at -158 5' to the G gamma globin gene were studied in three Algerian families that include SS or S-beta(0) thal patients. G gamma to A gamma ratios were found similar, within a family, in subjects displaying the same combination of chromosomes 11, the ratio observed for a given combination depending on the chromosome haplotypes. Our data can be explained by the existence of several alleles of a genetic factor closely linked to the beta globin gene cluster and involved in the determination of G gamma to A gamma globin ratio.

[Pediatric cancerology in Algeria. Current status and perspectives].

Pediatric oncohematology represents 40% of our daily activity. Its management is analyzed and conditions of its development discussed. In underdeveloped countries, financial, human and management health resources are severely limited.