Rare coinheritance of HbQ India trait and sickle cell trait (HbS): A novel co-inheritance documented in pregnancy

Globally, hemoglobinopathies are among the most widespread inherited genetic disorders affecting red blood cells. However, the co-inheritance of HbQ India and HbS is a rare occurrence and has been infrequently reported in the medical literatures. Our case study describes a 38-year-old pregnant woman with sickle cell trait along with HbQ India co-inheritance. We hypothesized that, owing to the absence of changes in charge or morphology of red blood cells, the HBQ India trait whether expressed independently or through co-inheritance does not lead to hemolytic anemia. In this case, the hemogram findings revealed pregnancy-associated iron deficiency anemia, with no severe hemolytic complications experienced during the eighth month of pregnancy. No cases have been reported involving this co-inheritance during pregnancy, making this case particularly unique and insightful regarding its implications in that context. Investigating these co-inheritances appears feasible in regions with a high incidence of sickle cell disease, such as central India, particularly in Chhattisgarh. However, to date, no significant hemolytic activity has been reported in the absence of any secondary causes related to this condition, indicating a need for further research.