Hemolytic crisis is the rapid destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis). The destruction occurs faster than the body can produce more red blood cells.

A hemolytic crisis causes acute (and often severe) anemia, because the body cannot make enough red blood cells to replace those destroyed. This can lead to kidney damage.

Hemolytic crises in persons with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency can be deadly.

Defects inside red blood cells and problems with the blood can lead to hemolytic anemias, which destroy red blood cells too early. Such conditions can lead to a hemolytic crisis.

Other causes include:

• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
• Sickle cell disease

If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor:

• Urine that looks red, red-brown, or brown (tea-colored)
• Fatigue, pale skin, or other symptoms of anemia, especially if they get worse
• A decrease in the amount of urine you produce

Emergency treatment may be necessary. This may include a hospital stay, oxygen, blood transfusions, and other treatments.

When your condition is stable, your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask questions, such as:

• When did you first notice symptoms?
• What symptoms did you notice?
• Do you have hemolytic anemia, G6PD deficiency, or a kidney disorder?

The physical examination may occasionally show swelling of the spleen (splenomegaly).

Tests may include:

• CBC
• Blood chemistry
• Kidney or abdominal ultrasound
• Kidney or abdominal CT scan

Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Shattil SS, et al. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Orlando, Fl: Churchill Livingstone; 2005.