41 Hemoglobin SC Disease
Michelle To and Valentin Villatoro
Cause(s):
Both β globin chains are affected as both genes for hemoglobin S and hemoglobin C are both inherited.1,2
Clinical Features:1
Complication is less severe than sickle cell disease but more severe than hemoglobin C disease. Cells are still prone to sickling under decreased oxygen tension.
Complications are similar to those seen in sickle cell anemia and vaso-occlusion can occur.
Laboratory Features:1,2
CBC: Hb: Decreased Hct: Decreased MCHC: Increased |
PBS: Normochromic Normocytic Target Cells HbSC crystals |
BM: N/A |
Hemoglobin Electrophoresis: Hb S: 45% Hb C: 45% Hb A: None Hb A2: 2-4% Hb F: 1% |
Other Tests: Solubility Tests: Positive HPLC Hemoglobin Electrophoresis |
References:
1. Laudicina RJ. Hemoglobinopathies: qualitative defects. In: Clinical laboratory hematology. 3rd ed. New Jersey: Pearson; 2015. p.231–50.
2. Randolph TR. Hemoglobinopathies (structural defects in hemoglobin). In: Rodak’s hematology clinical applications and principles. 5th ed. St. Louis, Missouri: Saunders; 2015. p. 426-453.