• In patients with unexplained hypochromic microcytic anemia, low iron binding capacity (low serum transferrin concentrations) and increased ferritin concentrations, hypotransferrinemia should be considered. Mutation analysis of the TF gene is recommended.

Hypochromic microcytic anemias, characterized by the presence in the circulating blood of red cells that are smaller than normal and poorly filled with hemoglobin, fall into two main categories.

Thalassemias are a group of inherited microcytic, hemolytic anemias characterized by defective hemoglobin synthesis. Alpha-thalassemia is particularly common among people with African, Mediterranean, or Southeast Asian ancestry. Beta-thalassemia is more common among people with Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, or Indian ancestry.

Macrocytic Anemia. Macrocytic anemia is a blood disorder that happens when your bone marrow produces abnormally large red blood cells. These abnormal blood cells lack nutrients red blood cells need to function normally. Macrocytic anemia isn’t a serious illness but it can cause serious medical issues if left untreated.