2024 Winter Newsletter - Flipbook - Page 4
Case Study:
Hemoglobin C Disease
This sample from a patient with Hemoglobin C (Hb C) disease shows anemia with marked anisocytosis per the RBC impedance
histogram. Smear review confirms the automated results and shows target cells, poikilocytosis, Howell-Jolly bodies, and rare
hemoglobin C crystals.
Hemoglobin C is one of the most common hemoglobin variants found in humans and may be responsible for causing anemia with
mild hemolysis and splenomegaly. The structural abnormality of the ß-globin chain causes decreased solubility of the hemoglobin
molecule, resulting in crystal formation and increased cellular rigidity which, in turn, leads to shortened red cell survival. A person
may be heterozygous for Hb C, in which case they are considered to have hemoglobin C trait and are usually asymptomatic;
hemoglobin C disease is diagnosed
in patients whom are homozygous.
Hb C is closely related to hemoglobin
S which is responsible for sickle cell
disease. Both hemoglobin variants
are most common in people whose
ancestors inhabited the world’s
malaria zones and both have been
found to have some degree of
malaria resistance.
Certain abnormal hemoglobins such as
Hb C, Hb S, and the combined form,
Hb S-C, are known to produce hyperdense RBCs with increased MCHC
values due to altered surface volume
and/or deformability of the RBCs.n
Note: The clinical applications or uses presented in these materials, including case studies, are provided for illustration purposes only. Prior to using any Sysmex device,
please review the manufacturer’s instructions for use. It is the healthcare provider’s responsibility to determine applicability in routine clinical practice.
Peripheral blood smear showing
typical morphology found in Hb C
homozygous patients.
4 | NEWS
