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Hemoglobin C disease

Clinical hemoglobin C

 

Hemoglobin 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.

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.

 

Symptoms

 

Most people do not have symptoms. In some cases, jaundice may occur. Some people may develop gallstones that need to be treated.

 

Exams and Tests

 

A physical exam may show an enlarged spleen.

Tests that may be done include:

  • Complete blood count
  • Hemoglobin electrophoresis
  • Peripheral blood smear
  • Blood hemoglobin

 

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.

 

Outlook (Prognosis)

 

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

 

Possible Complications

 

Complications may include:

  • Anemia
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Enlargement of the spleen

 

When to Contact a Medical Professional

 

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

 

Prevention

 

You may want to seek genetic counseling if you are at high risk for the condition and are considering having a baby.

 

 

Open References

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.

Steinberg MH, Benz EJ, Ebert BL. Pathobiology of the human erythrocyte and its hemoglobins. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Silberstein LE, et al, eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 34.

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          Review Date: 1/29/2026

          Reviewed By: Warren Brenner, MD, Oncologist, Lynn Cancer Institute, Boca Raton, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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