Abstract
We report a previously unrecognized α chain variant identified in three families from Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Abu Dhabi. The index patient presented for hemoglobinopathy screening and was identified to have both this novel α chain variant and Hb S [β6(A3)Glu→Val, GAG→GTG]. Hb Jeddah results from a point mutation (AAC→CAC) at codon 68 in exon 2 of the α1 gene. There were no apparent hematological abnormalities or clinical symptoms in the three individuals identified as heterozygotes for Hb Jeddah, as well as the index case with both Hb S and Hb Jeddah. As we have found this variant in three separate families, the incidence may be greater than currently recognized.