Health Encyclopedia

Hemoglobin C disease

Definition

Hemoglobin C disease is a blood disorder passed down through families. It leads to a type of anemia, which causes red blood cells to break down earlier than normal.

Alternative Names

Clinical hemoglobin C

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Hemoglobin C is a problem with hemoglobin, the part of red blood cells that carry oxygen. It is a type of hemoglobinopathy. The disease is caused by problem with a gene called beta globin.

The disease most often occurs in African Americans. You are more likely to develop hemoglobin C disease if someone in your family has had it.

Symptoms

Most people do not have symptoms. Occasionally, jaundice may occur. Some persons with this disease may develop gallstones that require treatment.

Signs and tests

Physical examination reveals an enlarged spleen.

Tests that may be done include:

Treatment

Usually no treatment is needed. Folic acid supplementation may help your body produce normal red blood cells and improve the symptoms of the anemia.

Expectations (prognosis)

People with hemoglobin C disease can expect to lead a normal life.

Complications

Complications include episodes of pain, hip problems, vision problems, and gallbladder disease.

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of hemoglobin C disease.

Prevention

Genetic counseling may be appropriate for high-risk couples who wish to have a baby.

References

Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.

Noble J. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001.

Review Date:4/1/2007
Reviewed By:Mark Levin, MD, Hematologist and Oncologist, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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