Clinical Significance
This mutated form reduces the normal plasticity of host erythrocytes causing a hemoglobinopathy. In those who are heterozygous for the mutation, about 28–44% of total hemoglobin (Hb) is HbC, and no anemia develops.
In homozygotes, nearly all Hb is in the HbC form, resulting in mild hemolytic anemia.
Read more about this topic: Hemoglobin C