Hemoglobin C disease
Clinical hemoglobin CHemoglobin C disease is a blood disorder passed down through families. It leads to a type of anemia, which occurs when red blood cells break down earlier than normal.
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Causes
Hemoglobin C is an abnormal type of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. It is a type of hemoglobinopathy. The disease is caused by a problem with a gene called beta globin.
The disease most often occurs in African Americans. You are more likely to have hemoglobin C disease if someone in your family has had it.
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Symptoms
Most people do not have symptoms. In some cases, jaundice may occur. Some people may develop gallstones that need to be treated.
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Exams and Tests
A physical exam may show an enlarged spleen.
Tests that may be done include:
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Treatment
In most cases, no treatment is needed. Folic acid supplements may help your body produce normal red blood cells and improve the symptoms of the anemia.
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Outlook (Prognosis)
People with hemoglobin C disease can expect to lead a normal life.
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Possible Complications
Complications may include:
- Anemia
- Gallbladder disease
- Enlargement of the spleen
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When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your health care provider if you have symptoms of hemoglobin C disease.
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Prevention
You may want to seek genetic counseling if you are at high risk for the condition and are considering having a baby.
References
Howard J. Sickle cell disease and other hemoglobinopathies. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 149.
Smith-Whitley K, Kwiatkowski JL. Hemoglobinopathies. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, et al, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 511.
So JCC, Ma ESK. Hemoglobin and hemoglobinopathies. In: Rifai N, Chiu RWK, Young I, Burnham CAD, Wittwer CT, eds. Tietz Textbook of Laboratory Medicine. 7th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2023:chap 77.
Wilson CS, Vergara-Lluri ME, Brynes RK. Evaluation of anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. In: Jaffe ES, Arber DA, Campo E, Harris NL, Quintanilla-Martinez L, eds. Hematopathology. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2017:chap 11.