Nineteen years study of beta-thalassaemia in Slovakia.

Background: Beta-thalassaemia is a congenital disorder caused by point mutations in a haemoglobin beta-globin chain. The heterozygous form produces microcytosis and normal iron levels, however, haemoglobin electrophoresis shows elevated amounts of haemoglobin A2 and eventually foetal haemoglobin F as well.

Methods: Between 2005-2011, in three centres in Slovakia, carriers of beta-thalassaemic genes or other haemoglobinopathies were searched for.