Overview

Some people inherit one sickle cell gene and one other defective hemoglobin gene. This can result in various types of sickling disorders. These disorders range from mild to severe.

Sickle cell disorders include:

Sickle cell disease (hemoglobin SS disease).

This occurs when both genes produce hemoglobin S. Someone with this disease typically has symptoms of anemia, mild to life-threatening complications, and a shortened life span.

Sickle beta-thalassemia.

Someone with this disease may have mild to severe sickle cell disease.

Hemoglobin SC disease.

A person with this disease may have generally milder symptoms and a longer life span than a person with sickle cell disease but still may become seriously ill.

Hemoglobin SE disease.

Someone with this disease may have mild anemia. Most people don't have symptoms.

Hemoglobin SO disease and hemoglobin SD disease.

A person with these diseases may have all sickle cell disease symptoms, ranging from mild to severe.