hemolytic anemia

Hemolytic anemia is a condition where red blood cells are destroyed at a rate significantly faster than they can be produced. This excessive destruction leads to a reduced oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood, a state known as anemia.1

There are two primary causes for hemolytic anemia:
* Inherited red blood cell defects: Conditions like hereditary spherocytosis, where red blood cells have a weakened membrane, or enzyme deficiencies within the red blood cells, can lead to their premature destruction. Sickle cell anemia and thalassemia are examples of inherited disorders involving abnormal hemoglobin that cause hemolytic anemia.12
* External factors: An environment hostile to red blood cells can also cause their destruction. This can be due to certain drugs, toxins, incompatible blood transfusions, or autoimmune responses where the body produces antibodies against its own red blood cells.1

Symptoms can include pallor and jaundice. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve medication or, in some cases, spleen removal.1