Although it has been observed that VOCs are often associated with increased hemolysis (elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and bilirubin), worsening anemia (low hemoglobin level) and moderate systemic inflammation (elevated C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and hyperleukocytosis), there is currently no reliable diagnostic biomarker of an on-going VOC. The gene discussed is CRP; the disease is anemia.