History and Objectives: Due to the prevalence of the beta-thalassemia carrier ship in our country and the emphasis on the controlling and prophylaxis of the chronic symptoms, we decided to review complete blood count (CBC) and hemoglobin electrophoresis among parents of major beta-thalassemic patients that were referred to the Imam Hossein hospital in 1997-1998.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive study concerning parents of all beta-thalassemic patients that are referred to the Imam Hossein hospital was carried out. Blood samples were taken for CBC and electrophoretic analysis. MCV and MCH levels of lower than 80fL and 27pg respectively were considered abnormal. HbA2 level higher than 3.5% was also considered as abnormal.

Results: All 48 candidates (100%) had reduced MCV and MCH. MCV and MCH were 60±45 fL and 20±1.5 pg respectively. 62.5% had increased and 37.5% had normal RBC count. No record of low RBC was encountered. Results of electrophoretic test were as follows: HbF 2.4±2.4% and HbA2 5.2±1.1%. 89.5% of individuals had abnormal electrophoretic results and 10.5% had normal HbA2 levels (Lower than 3.5%).

Conclusion: All parents of beta-thalassemic major patients had abnormality in their CBC index, therefore the first step in evaluation of beta-thalassemia ought to be CBC assessment and once abnormal results are reported then electrophoretic analysis should be carried out. Further study on the diagnostic efficiency of CBC index in detection of major beta-thalassemia is recommended.