Types of Sickle Cell Disease

There are several types of sickle cell disease. The type you have depends on the hemoglobin genes you inherited from your parents.

Fred Hutch Cancer Center physicians care for adults with all types of sickle cell disease. Understanding your specific type helps your care team recommend the treatments, monitoring and supportive care that are right for you.

Sickle Cell Disease Care Tailored to You

You and your family are our top priority. At Fred Hutch Cancer Center, we offer comprehensive and compassionate care — personalized to you. You'll have access to the latest treatment options, clinical trials and supportive care services.

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Learn About Sickle Cell Disease Types

HbSS

HbSS is the most common type of sickle cell disease. People with HbSS inherit an abnormal sickle hemoglobin gene (hemoglobin S) from each parent.

HbSC

People with HbSC inherit an abnormal hemoglobin S gene from one parent and an abnormal hemoglobin C gene from the other parent.

HbS Beta Thalassemia

People with HbS beta thalassemia inherit an abnormal hemoglobin S gene from one parent and a gene for beta thalassemia from the other parent. There are two subtypes:

  • HbS beta⁰-thalassemia 
  • HbS beta⁺-thalassemia 

(Beta may also be written as β.)

HbSD

People with HbSD inherit an abnormal hemoglobin S gene from one parent and an abnormal hemoglobin D gene from the other parent.

HbSE

People with HbSE inherit an abnormal hemoglobin S gene from one parent and an abnormal hemoglobin E gene from the other parent.

HbSO

People with HbSO inherit an abnormal hemoglobin S gene from one parent and an abnormal hemoglobin O gene from the other parent.