Which red blood cell inclusion is characteristic of hemoglobin C disease?

The characteristic inclusion associated with hemoglobin C disease is the presence of rod-shaped crystals within the red blood cells. In individuals with hemoglobin C disease, the abnormal hemoglobin (hemoglobin C) can precipitate within the red blood cells, forming these unique rod-shaped crystals. This distinct morphology helps differentiate hemoglobin C disease from other hemoglobinopathies and is a key feature that medical technologists look for when examining blood smears for hematological disorders.

Other inclusions listed, such as Howell-Jolly bodies, basophilic stippling, and Pappenheimer bodies, may be seen in various other conditions but are not specific to hemoglobin C disease. Howell-Jolly bodies are remnants of nuclear material often associated with asplenia or ineffective erythropoiesis. Basophilic stippling reflects lead poisoning or impaired hemoglobin synthesis, while Pappenheimer bodies are iron-containing inclusions typically seen in conditions like sideroblastic anemia or thalassemia. Therefore, identifying rod-shaped crystals specifically points to hemoglobin C disease, reinforcing the correct understanding of this hematological condition.