Newborn Screening Results: Haemoglobin C Carrier (HbAC)

What does this mean to the baby and his/her parents?

Information on the implications for the newly diagnosed can be found in the following leaflet and ordered via PHRD:

When a baby is identified as a carrier of haemoglobin C it is important to test the parents, if not done before. This way it can be confirmed from which parent this has been inherited and, at the same time, it ensure there are no risks for future pregnancies.

When either parent has been confirmed as a carrier of haemoglobin C, information on their implications can be found in the following leaflet and ordered via PHRD:

Actions

Test baby’s parents, if not done previously (that includes: haemoglobin screen, full blood count and ferritin levels). This can be done in primary care.

If only one parent is a carrier of haemoglobin C, the couple has a 1 in 2 chance (or 50%) to have children who are healthy carriers.

• If one parent is a carrier of haemoglobin C and the other is a carrier of Sickle Cell Disease (haemoglobin S), refer to Clinical Genetics for appropriate counselling on their reproduction options.
• If one parent is a carrier of haemoglobin C and the other is a carrier of any other haemoglobin variant, reassure the couple as there is no other relevant interaction with any other haemoglobin variant.

If the couple has other children, only test them if the partner is a carrier of sickle cell disease. Otherwise, there is no need to test them unless they are present with health problems. It is normally recommended to postpone testing until the age of 16, postpone testing until the age of 16, to enable them to make their own informed decision.

Stress that other family members can be carriers, so it is advisable to circulate the information to first-degree relatives (parents and siblings) They can request a test called “Haemoglobinopathy screen” via their GP.

Give an appropriate information leaflets. (“Information for mums and dads: your baby carries a gene for unusual haemoglobin” and “You are a carrier of haemoglobin C”).

Make sure the patient has received his/her haemoglobinopathy card.

Explain that it is still important to have malaria prophylaxis if visiting an area where malaria is endemic.

More Information

If you would like more information about haemoglobinopathies and testing, please do not hesitat to contact:

Community Genetic Counsellors on Tele: 0141 354 9201 / 0141 354 9229 (secretary)

Email: [email protected]