Hemolysis is the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. It can be caused by diseases, medications, infections, and hereditary conditions. Symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, and jaundice. Treatment depends on the type and origin of anemia. Complications can be serious, and prognosis varies.
The abnormal breakdown of red blood cells in the body is known as hemolysis. The presence of certain diseases can contribute to the development of this condition, which leads to hemolytic anemia. Treatment for hemolysis and the subsequent development of hemolytic anemia depends on the type and reason for the anemia. Due to the serious nature of the potential complications associated with this condition, individuals who become symptomatic should seek immediate medical attention.
Naturally produced in the bone marrow, the lifespan of a red blood cell is nearly three months before it breaks down. As new blood cells are introduced into the bloodstream, the spleen filters the dying cells from the circulatory system. The presence of certain diseases sometimes causes a disruption in the circulatory system which adversely affects red blood cells and their life cycle. When disease forces red blood cells to die prematurely, the bone marrow is forced to compensate by increasing red blood cell production. How quickly the bone marrow is able to compensate for the loss determines the levels of red blood cells, which can drop rapidly.
There are a variety of conditions that can contribute to the development of hemolysis. Certain medications, infections, and immune system responses to disease can contribute to the premature death of red blood cells. Hereditary conditions, such as sickle cell disease and G6PD deficiency disorder, can also contribute to the development of hemolysis. Exposure to poisons and toxins can adversely affect an individual’s red blood cell levels, causing the balance between purging and production to become disrupted.
Compensated hemolysis occurs when the bone marrow is able to restore balance during the early stages of red blood cell destruction, ultimately preventing the onset of anemia. Hemolytic anemia occurs when the bone marrow is unable to adequately compensate for the loss. There are several types of hemolytic anemia, and each is named after the initial cause of red blood cell failure and its contributing factors.
There are specific defects associated with each form of anemia and these are divided into two categories. Internal defects within red blood cells are congenital or present at birth and result in protein abnormalities or imbalances. External defects result from external influences and can include infections, adverse drug reactions, and blood clots.
Individuals suffering from hemolysis-induced anemia can develop a variety of symptoms. A rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, or pronounced fatigue may be indicative of hemolytic anemia. Those whose urine is dark in color or whose skin takes on a yellowish hue associated with jaundice may also be symptomatic.
There are several diagnostic tests used to confirm the presence of hemolysis and hemolytic anemia. An individual who is suspected of having both conditions may undergo extensive urinalysis and blood tests. A red blood cell count, also known as a red blood cell count, is done in addition to tests that measure levels of oxygen carrying hemoglobin, proteins such as haptoglobin, and bile pigments such as bilirubin. The lifespan of existing red blood cells may be subject to direct monitoring, which involves delivering small amounts of radioactive material to the cells in a process known as radioactive labelling.
Treatment for premature breakdown of red blood cells depends on the type and origin of the individual’s anemia. Corticosteroids and mineral supplements may be given to increase red blood cell production. Complications associated with hemolysis and hemolytic anemias can include infections, renal failure, and cardiovascular failure. The prognosis associated with this condition depends entirely on the individual and the severity of their anemia.
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