Hemoglobin C Disease

Hemoglobin C disease is a condition affecting a protein in the blood (hemoglobin) which transports oxygen throughout the body. Symptoms of this condition can include fatigue, weakness, and anemia. The spleen can also become enlarged as a result of this disease. For many people with this condition, symptoms are relatively mild and the lifespan is normal. Some people with this condition do not exhibit any symptoms at all. Treatment for any symptoms that do present include taking folic acid supplements.

Hemoglobin C disease is caused by a mutation in the gene that provides instructions to the body to make hemoglobin. This mutation causes a change in the shape of the red blood cells so that oxygen isn't carried as well throughout the body.