Mediterranean anemia.

There are two forms of Mediterranean anemia, one mild, the other severe. The major variety is characterized by pronounced anemia and systemic changes. In the minor form, usually there is no anemia or other clinical abnormality. The milder disease is relatively common in Italians, but both forms may occur in persons of non-Mediterranean ancestry, as well as in those who come from areas adjoining the Mediterranean Sea. Diagnosis of the disease is made on the basis of history, clinical observation, roentgen studies of the bones, and exceptionally painstaking laboratory tests. Periodic transfusions of whole blood are necessary for persons with the more severe form of the disease.