<prompt> All the following are seen in thalassemia major except:Microcytic hypochromic anaemiaHepatosplenomegalyLow iron content in bloodNone  <response>: Ans: c Low iron content in bloodSerum iron content is increased in thalassaemia major and not decreased.THALASSAEMIA MAJOR COOLYS ANAEMIAAge is usually 3-6 monthsRegular, monthly blood transfusion dependentClinical Features Mainly due to extramedullary erythropoiesis in facial and skull bones - haemolytic facies HepatosplenomegalyLab Findings Peripheral smear- hypochromic microcytic anaemia with bizarre fragmented poikilocytes Intra erythrocytic inclusions - Heinz bodies Heinz bodies are precipitated extra alpha chain Hb F increased TIBC normal Osmotic fragility is reduced X ray skull - hair on end appearance.Complications 1 Hypersplenism 2 Haemosiderosis 3 Endocrine complications4 Cardiomyopathy - cause of death Diabetes mellitus Hypothyroidism Delayed puberty5 Hyperpigmentation due to melanin deposition6 Growth retardationTreatmentRegular packed cell transfusionBone marrow transfusion is curative 