Haemolytic anaemia is a condition in which the red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them. This can be caused by a number of different things, including infections, autoimmune disorders, toxins, and medications. Blood tests can help to diagnose the condition and determine the underlying cause.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count (CBC) is one of the primary tests used to diagnose haemolytic anaemia. It measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood. In haemolytic anaemia, the CBC will usually show a decrease in red blood cells due to the rapid destruction of the cells. It may also show an increase in white blood cells, which can indicate an infection or autoimmune disorder.
Haptoglobin Test
The haptoglobin test measures the amount of haptoglobin in the blood, which is a protein that binds to and helps to remove free haemoglobin from the bloodstream. In haemolytic anaemia, the haptoglobin level is usually decreased due to the rapid breakdown of red blood cells.
Reticulocyte Count
The reticulocyte count measures the number of immature red blood cells in the blood. In haemolytic anaemia, the reticulocyte count is usually increased as the body tries to compensate for the rapid destruction of red blood cells.
Blood Smear
A blood smear is a test that involves examining a sample of the patient’s blood under a microscope. It can help to detect abnormal red blood cells, which can be seen in haemolytic anaemia. The abnormal red blood cells tend to be smaller than normal ones and may have a distinctive shape.
Liver Function Tests
Liver function tests measure the levels of certain enzymes in the blood, which can be elevated in haemolytic anaemia due to the increased breakdown of red blood cells. These tests can also help to identify any underlying liver conditions that may be causing the anaemia.
Bone Marrow Biopsy
A bone marrow biopsy is a test that involves taking a sample of the bone marrow and examining it for abnormalities. This can help to determine the cause of the anaemia, as it can show if the bone marrow is producing enough red blood cells to replace those that are being destroyed.
