Hemolytic Anemia (HA)
Hemolytic Anemia (HA): Understanding the Condition
Hemolytic anemia (HA) is a condition in which red blood cells (RBCs) are destroyed faster than the body can replace them, leading to a deficiency of healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin, which are crucial for oxygen delivery throughout the body158. The destruction of red blood cells is called hemolysis134. Hemolytic anemia accounts for 5% of all existing anemias1. It can be acquired or inherited, and the severity and duration can vary34.
Symptoms of Hemolytic Anemia
Symptoms of hemolytic anemia are similar to other forms of anemia but also include symptoms related to the breakdown of red blood cells12. Symptoms can be mild or severe and may develop suddenly or over time7. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness13
- Shortness of breath13
- Dizziness or lightheadedness23
- Pallor or abnormal paleness of the skin124
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mouth)1245
- Dark-colored urine124
- Tachycardia (increased heart rate)14
- Heart murmur24
- Enlarged spleen and liver24
- Confusion24
- Fever24
- Inability to handle physical activity4
Causes of Hemolytic Anemia
Hemolytic anemia can be intrinsic or extrinsic16.
- Intrinsic Hemolytic Anemia: Develops when red blood cells produced by the body don’t function properly and is often inherited6. Examples include sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, G6PD deficiency, and hereditary spherocytosis67.
- Extrinsic Hemolytic Anemia: Develops when red blood cells are destroyed by external factors6. Underlying causes can include infection, tumors, autoimmune disorders, medication side effects, leukemia, lymphoma, enlarged spleen, E. coli toxin, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, and HELLP syndrome67. Certain infections and blood transfusions from a donor whose blood type didn’t match can also cause hemolytic anemia7.
Some medications can also cause drug-induced hemolytic anemia6.
Diagnosis of Hemolytic Anemia
Diagnosing hemolytic anemia involves a medical history, physical exams, and various tests23:
- Physical exam23
- Blood tests to check red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels2
- Urine tests2
- Bone marrow biopsy and aspiration2
Treatment of Hemolytic Anemia
Treatment for hemolytic anemia depends on the cause and severity of the condition1367. Treatment options include:
- Blood transfusions4
- Corticosteroids and other medicines4
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References:
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia: current knowledge and perspectives: This paper reviews autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), which is caused by autoantibodies destroying red blood cells, leading to anemia. DOI not available. Visit: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33292368/
New Insights in Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: From Pathogenesis to Therapy: This article provides an overview of AIHA, covering its classification, diagnosis, pathogenic mechanisms, and treatment options. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm9123859
The choice of new treatments in autoimmune hemolytic anemia: This review discusses the different types of AIHA and the optimal selection of therapy based on AIHA type, disease features, and patient characteristics. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2023.1180509
