Thalassemia minor
ICD-10 D56.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of thalassemia minor.
Thalassemia minor, also known as beta-thalassemia trait, is a genetic blood disorder characterized by a reduced production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Individuals with thalassemia minor typically have mild anemia and may not exhibit significant clinical symptoms. The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning that a person must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to develop more severe forms of thalassemia. In thalassemia minor, patients often present with microcytic anemia, which can be misdiagnosed as iron deficiency anemia. Laboratory findings typically include a low mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), along with normal iron studies. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis by identifying mutations in the HBB gene. While thalassemia minor is generally considered a benign condition, it is important for affected individuals to be aware of their carrier status, especially when planning for pregnancy, as there is a risk of having children with more severe forms of thalassemia if both parents are carriers.
Detailed lab results, genetic testing outcomes, and patient history.
Patients presenting with mild anemia, family history of thalassemia, or abnormal hemoglobin electrophoresis.
Ensure that genetic counseling and testing results are documented to support the diagnosis.
Family pedigree, genetic test results, and counseling notes.
Couples seeking genetic counseling for family planning when both are carriers of thalassemia minor.
Documentation of carrier status and potential risks to offspring is crucial.
Used when genetic testing is performed to confirm thalassemia minor.
Document the reason for testing and the results.
Hematology specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of test results.
Thalassemia minor is a genetic blood disorder characterized by mild anemia due to reduced hemoglobin production. It is often asymptomatic and diagnosed through blood tests and genetic testing.
