Hemolytic anemia

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia (pronounced: hee-muh-LIT-ik uh-NEE-mee-uh) is a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed and removed from the bloodstream before their normal lifespan is over.

Etymology

The term "hemolytic anemia" is derived from the Greek words "haima" meaning blood, "lysis" meaning loosening or dissolution, and "anemia" meaning lack of blood.

Definition

Hemolytic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells (RBCs) in the bloodstream. This destruction can occur either in the bloodstream (intravascular hemolysis) or elsewhere in the body (extravascular hemolysis).

Causes

Hemolytic anemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases, infections, certain medications, and blood transfusion reactions.

Genetic Disorders

Genetic disorders that can cause hemolytic anemia include sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and hereditary spherocytosis.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause hemolytic anemia. In these cases, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells.

Infections

Certain infections, such as malaria and mononucleosis, can also cause hemolytic anemia.

Symptoms

Symptoms of hemolytic anemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, shortness of breath, and a rapid heart rate.

Treatment

Treatment for hemolytic anemia depends on the underlying cause of the condition. It may include medications, blood transfusions, or in severe cases, a procedure known as a splenectomy, in which the spleen is removed.

Related Terms

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski