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What Diseases Are Caused by Hemoglobin?

Published in Genetics & Hematology 3 mins read

Diseases caused by hemoglobin result from abnormalities in its structure or production. Based on the provided references, these diseases include various hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias.

These diseases arise because of genetic mutations that affect the production of normal hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is essential for carrying oxygen in red blood cells, and when it's not functioning correctly, it can lead to significant health problems.

Here's a breakdown of specific hemoglobin-related diseases mentioned in the references:

  • Hemoglobin Sickle Cell Anemia: A genetic disorder causing red blood cells to become sickle-shaped, leading to pain, organ damage, and other complications.

  • Hemoglobin Sickle C Disease: A mixed hemoglobinopathy where individuals inherit one gene for hemoglobin S (sickle cell) and one for hemoglobin C, resulting in a milder form of sickle cell disease.

  • Hemoglobin S/Beta + Thalassemia: A condition where individuals inherit one gene for hemoglobin S and one for beta-plus thalassemia, which reduces the amount of beta-globin produced, leading to a milder form of sickle cell disease.

  • Hemoglobin C/Beta + Thalassemia: Individuals inherit one gene for hemoglobin C and one for beta-plus thalassemia.

  • Hemoglobin C Disease: A genetic disorder where individuals inherit two genes for hemoglobin C, causing mild hemolytic anemia.

  • Hemoglobin S/Beta 0 Thalassemia: A more severe condition than Hemoglobin S/Beta + Thalassemia. Individuals inherit one gene for hemoglobin S and one for beta-zero thalassemia, where no beta-globin is produced.

  • Hemoglobin Sickle Cell Anemia + Barts: This indicates the presence of Hemoglobin Bart's, which is composed of four gamma globin chains. Hemoglobin Barts is commonly seen in hydrops fetalis, the most severe form of alpha thalassemia. Its presence along with Sickle Cell Anemia could indicate co-inheritance of alpha thalassemia genes.

Disease Description
Sickle Cell Anemia Red blood cells become sickle-shaped, causing pain and organ damage.
Hemoglobin SC Disease A milder form of sickle cell disease caused by inheriting one gene for HbS and one for HbC.
HbS/Beta+ Thalassemia Reduced beta-globin production combined with HbS, usually resulting in milder symptoms.
HbC/Beta+ Thalassemia Reduced beta-globin production combined with HbC.
Hemoglobin C Disease Mild hemolytic anemia due to inheriting two HbC genes.
HbS/Beta0 Thalassemia More severe, complete absence of beta-globin production combined with HbS.
Sickle Cell Anemia + Barts Sickle Cell Anemia with presence of Hb Barts (tetramer of gamma globin chains), usually seen in alpha thalassemia.

These hemoglobin-related diseases vary in severity and symptoms, depending on the specific genetic mutations involved and the amount of normal hemoglobin that can be produced. Proper diagnosis and management are crucial for individuals affected by these conditions.

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