Hemolytic anemia is a type of anemia that occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be replaced. The destruction of red blood cells is most often caused by an autoimmune disorder, but it can also be caused by certain medications or inherited conditions. When red blood cells are destroyed, they break down into a substance called hemoglobin, which is then filtered out of the bloodstream by the kidneys.
Symptoms of Hemolytic Anemia in Bone Marrow
The symptoms of hemolytic anemia in bone marrow include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, jaundice, dark urine, and enlarged spleen. If the anemia is severe, the patient may also experience dizziness, chest pain, and an irregular heartbeat.
Diagnosis of Hemolytic Anemia in Bone Marrow
To diagnose hemolytic anemia in bone marrow, a doctor will typically perform a physical exam and order blood tests to measure the levels of red blood cells, hemoglobin, and other blood components. The doctor may also order a bone marrow biopsy to examine the bone marrow for any abnormalities.
Treatment of Hemolytic Anemia in Bone Marrow
Treatment for hemolytic anemia in bone marrow typically involves medications to suppress the immune system, transfusions of red blood cells, and, in some cases, a bone marrow transplant. In some cases, a person may need to undergo an exchange transfusion, which involves removing some of the person's own red blood cells and replacing them with donated red blood cells. In some cases, a person may require a blood transfusion with a type of blood called packed red blood cells, which contains higher levels of hemoglobin than regular blood.
