Laboratory Diagnostics of Acquired Hemolytic Anemia
Acquired hemolytic anemia is a condition in which the body's red blood cells (RBCs) are destroyed faster than they can be replaced. This can lead to anemia, which is a condition in which the body does not have enough oxygen-carrying red blood cells. The diagnosis of acquired hemolytic anemia requires laboratory testing.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The most common test for acquired hemolytic anemia is a complete blood count (CBC). This test evaluates the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. It also measures the hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, which are indicators of anemia. Low levels of hemoglobin and hematocrit can indicate a diagnosis of acquired hemolytic anemia.
Reticulocyte Count
A reticulocyte count is a test that measures the number of immature red blood cells (reticulocytes) in the blood. This test is used to evaluate how quickly the body is able to replace red blood cells that have been destroyed. Increased numbers of reticulocytes can indicate a diagnosis of acquired hemolytic anemia.
Peripheral Blood Smear
A peripheral blood smear is a test that involves examining a sample of the patient’s blood under a microscope. The examination looks for abnormalities in the red blood cells, such as a decrease in the size of the cells or an increase in the number of cells with a misshapen or crescent shape. These abnormalities can be indications of acquired hemolytic anemia.
Direct Coombs Test
The direct Coombs test is used to determine whether antibodies are present in the blood that are attacking and destroying red blood cells. If the test is positive, it indicates that the patient has acquired hemolytic anemia.
Haptoglobin Test
The haptoglobin test is used to evaluate the levels of haptoglobin in the blood. Haptoglobin is a protein that binds to free hemoglobin in the blood. Low levels of haptoglobin can be indicative of acquired hemolytic anemia.
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test
The LDH test is used to evaluate the levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the blood. LDH is an enzyme found in red blood cells. High levels of LDH can be indicative of acquired hemolytic anemia.
