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Hemoglobin Paksé disease

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Hemoglobin Paksé disease, also referred to in context as hemoglobin SC disease, involves a hemolytic anemia condition exacerbated by certain drug reactions, such as ceftriaxone-induced hemolytic anemia and hepatitis, leading to severe complications including multiple organ failure 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Acute hemolytic anemia (hemoglobin drop, hemoglobinuria) and signs of hepatitis (elevated liver enzymes) 1.
  • Laboratory Tests:
  • - Direct antiglobulin test (DAT) showing positive results with polyspecific and anticomplement (C3) antibodies 1. - Agglutination reactions in plasma samples when incubated with ceftriaxone 1.
  • Genetic Testing: Confirmation of hemoglobin SC genotype 1.
  • Management

  • Discontinue Inciting Agent: Immediately stop ceftriaxone or any suspected drug 1.
  • Supportive Care:
  • - Blood transfusions for severe anemia 1. - Management of organ dysfunction (renal replacement therapy for renal failure) 1.
  • Monitoring: Close monitoring of liver function, renal function, and complete blood count 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: Adolescents with hemoglobin SC disease are particularly vulnerable to severe drug-induced complications, as evidenced by fatal outcomes 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Avoid Ceftriaxone in Hemoglobin SC Disease: Ceftriaxone should be avoided in patients with hemoglobin SC disease due to the risk of severe hemolytic anemia and hepatitis 1 (Evidence: Weak).
  • Prompt Recognition and Intervention: Early recognition of drug-induced hemolytic reactions and prompt cessation of the offending agent is crucial to prevent organ failure 1 (Evidence: Weak).
  • Aggressive Supportive Measures: Implement aggressive supportive care measures including transfusion support and organ-specific management for complications like renal failure 1 (Evidence: Weak).
  • References

    1 Bell MJ, Stockwell DC, Luban NL, Shirey RS, Shaak L, Ness PM et al.. Ceftriaxone-induced hemolytic anemia and hepatitis in an adolescent with hemoglobin SC disease. Pediatric critical care medicine : a journal of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies 2005. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Ceftriaxone-induced hemolytic anemia and hepatitis in an adolescent with hemoglobin SC disease.Bell MJ, Stockwell DC, Luban NL, Shirey RS, Shaak L, Ness PM et al. Pediatric critical care medicine : a journal of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies (2005)

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