Primary hemolytic anemia is caused by a defect in the red blood cells, which can be inherited or acquired. Secondary hemolytic anemia is caused by an external factor, such as infections, toxins, or medications.
Primary Hemolytic Anemia
Primary hemolytic anemia is caused by a defect in the red blood cells, which can be inherited or acquired. In inherited cases, the red blood cells are unable to function properly and are destroyed prematurely. In acquired cases, the red blood cells are damaged by an external factor, such as an infection or a toxin.
Inherited Primary Hemolytic Anemia
Inherited primary hemolytic anemia is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the structure or function of the red blood cells. Common inherited forms of primary hemolytic anemia include sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
Acquired Primary Hemolytic Anemia
Acquired primary hemolytic anemia is caused by an external factor that damages the red blood cells. Common causes of acquired primary hemolytic anemia include autoimmune diseases, infections, and certain medications.
Secondary Hemolytic Anemia
Secondary hemolytic anemia is caused by an external factor, such as infections, toxins, or medications. Common causes of secondary hemolytic anemia include autoimmune diseases, infections, and certain medications.
Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases can cause the body to produce antibodies that attack and destroy red blood cells. Common autoimmune diseases that can cause secondary hemolytic anemia include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and glomerulonephritis.
Infections
Infections can cause the body to produce antibodies that attack and destroy red blood cells. Common infections that can cause secondary hemolytic anemia include malaria, HIV, and bacterial infections.
Medications
Certain medications can cause the body to produce antibodies that attack and destroy red blood cells. Common medications that can cause secondary hemolytic anemia include penicillin, sulfonamides, and cephalosporins.
