Laboratory Tests for Hemolytic Anemia
Hemolytic anemia is a type of anemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells (RBCs). The destruction of RBCs can be caused by a variety of factors, including autoimmune disorders, genetic conditions, and certain infections. In order to diagnose hemolytic anemia, a doctor will typically order a series of lab tests. These tests can help the doctor determine the cause of the hemolytic anemia and help guide treatment.
Complete Blood Count (CBC) A complete blood count (CBC) is a basic lab test that measures the number of red and white blood cells in the body. It can also measure various other parameters, such as hemoglobin levels, hematocrit levels, and platelet counts. If hemolytic anemia is present, the CBC will usually show a decrease in the number of RBCs and hemoglobin levels.
Reticulocyte Count A reticulocyte count is a test that measures the number of immature red blood cells in the body. In cases of hemolytic anemia, the body will typically produce more reticulocytes in an attempt to compensate for the decreased number of RBCs. A reticulocyte count will usually be elevated in cases of hemolytic anemia.
Peripheral Smear A peripheral smear, also known as a blood smear, is a microscopic examination of a blood sample. During the exam, a sample of the patient’s blood is placed on a glass slide and examined under a microscope. In cases of hemolytic anemia, the peripheral smear can show various abnormalities, such as spherocytes (small, round RBCs), schistocytes (irregularly shaped RBCs), and anisocytosis (abnormal variation in the size of RBCs).
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) test is a blood test that measures the levels of the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase in the blood. This enzyme is released into the bloodstream when RBCs are destroyed. High levels of LDH in the blood can be a sign of hemolytic anemia.
Haptoglobin Test The haptoglobin test is a blood test that measures the levels of the protein haptoglobin in the blood. This protein binds to hemoglobin, a component of RBCs, when RBCs are destroyed. Low levels of haptoglobin in the blood can be a sign of hemolytic anemia.
Direct Coombs’ Test The direct Coombs’ test is a blood test used to detect antibodies that are attacking RBCs. In cases of autoimmune hemolytic anemia, the direct Coombs’ test will usually be positive, which means that antibodies are present in the patient’s blood.
