Thalassemias (Mediterranean Anemia; Thalassemia Major and Minor) By Evan M Braunstein, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Reviewed / Revised Jun 2022 | Modified Sep 2022 View Patient Education Pathophysiology Symptoms and Signs Diagnosis Prognosis Treatment Key Points More Information Thalassemias are a group of inherited microcytic, hemolytic anemias characterized by defective hemoglobin synthesis.