[Hb, C, D and E hemoglobinopathies].

The four commonest beta chain variants of human hemoglobin (Hb), i.e. Hbs C, D, E, and S were absent or quite infrequent in Japanese. They are occasionally found in visitors and immigrants to Japan recently. Geographical distribution, clinical expression, pathophysiology and diagnosis of Hbs C, D and E are briefly reviewed.