From the Research
Hemoglobin C trait is a genetic condition where a person inherits one normal hemoglobin gene (A) and one hemoglobin C gene, resulting in the genotype AC, which is a benign carrier state that typically causes no health problems and requires no treatment. This condition is characterized by the presence of approximately 60-70% normal hemoglobin A and 30-40% hemoglobin C in red blood cells, without causing red blood cell sickling or significant anemia 1. The majority of people with this trait live normal, healthy lives without symptoms and often discover their status through routine blood screening or family genetic testing.
Key Characteristics of Hemoglobin C Trait
- It is a benign carrier state that typically causes no health problems and requires no treatment
- People with hemoglobin C trait have normal red blood cells with approximately 60-70% normal hemoglobin A and 30-40% hemoglobin C
- Unlike sickle cell trait or disease, hemoglobin C trait doesn't cause red blood cell sickling or significant anemia
- Most people with this trait live normal, healthy lives without symptoms and often discover their status through routine blood screening or family genetic testing
Importance of Knowing Hemoglobin C Trait Status
While hemoglobin C trait itself is harmless, it's essential to know your status for family planning purposes, as having children with a partner who also carries hemoglobin C or other hemoglobin variants could result in offspring with more serious hemoglobin disorders 2. Although rare, there have been cases of retinopathy and angioid streaks associated with hemoglobin C trait, particularly in the presence of contributory factors such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus 1, 3.
Prevalence and Population Affected
The condition is most common in people of West African descent, particularly from Ghana and Burkina Faso. It is estimated that approximately 2 percent of African-Americans possess one gene for C hemoglobin 1. Hemoglobin electrophoresis is usually used to demonstrate the presence of hemoglobin C trait.
Clinical Implications
In general, hemoglobin C trait does not require treatment, and individuals with this trait can lead normal, healthy lives. However, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with hemoglobin C trait, particularly in the context of family planning and the presence of contributory factors 2, 1, 3.