Hemolytic anemiadescribes a large group of conditions characterized by accelerated destruction of red blood cells.
The average lifespan of a red blood cell is 120 days.
Hemolysis can be due to many different things.
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Anemia is indicated by low hemoglobin and/or hematocrit.
This count may be reported as a percentage or absolute reticulocyte count (ARC) or retic.
When a red blood cell is destroyed prematurely, it becomes fragmented or shaped like a sphere or globe.
Some medications cause an immune hemolytic anemia similar to autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
Otherwise, there are no specific tests to determine if your medication is the cause of your hemolytic anemia.
In general, the diagnosis is confirmed if your anemia improves after discontinuing the medication.
Causes
There are several medications associated with drug-induced hemolytic anemia.
The most common culprits are:
A related condition is aglucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
If you have G6PD deficiency, it is important for you to know whatmedications/foods you should avoid.
Treatment Options
Treatment options are determined by how severe your anemia is.
First, the medication/toxin that is causing hemolytic anemia should be stopped.
Blood transfusions can be given if necessary.
If hemolysis is severe, it may cause kidney injury.
Fortunately, removing the offending medication will keep the hemolysis from worsening.
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