Key Points

• Hemolytic anemia is a rare form of anemia in which red blood cells are destroyed (hemolyzed) and removed from the bloodstream before their usual lifespan is up.
• The two main types of hemolytic anemia are inherited and acquired. In inherited hemolytic anemia, the condition is passed from parent to child. In acquired hemolytic anemia, the person develops the condition from some other cause.
• In inherited hemolytic anemias, the body produces abnormal red blood cells that die or are destroyed by the body prematurely. The red blood cell abnormality can involve the cell membrane (the outer covering of the cell), the chemistry inside the cell, or the production of abnormal hemoglobin.
• Acquired hemolytic anemias are caused by immune system disorders, medicine reactions, infections, and reactions to transfusion of incompatible blood types.
• In some cases of hemolytic anemia, the exact cause cannot be found.
• Hemolytic anemia can affect people of all ages and both genders. Some types of hemolytic anemia are more likely to occur in certain populations than others.
• Common signs and symptoms of hemolytic anemia are feeling weak and fatigued (very tired) and having shortness of breath. People with hemolytic anemia may be jaundiced (have a yellow discoloration of the skin or eyes), have dark urine, or have an enlarged spleen.
• Hemolytic anemia is diagnosed based on a combination of medical and family history, physical exam, and diagnostic test results. A complete blood count is often the first test used to diagnose anemia. Additional tests may be needed to determine the specific type of hemolytic anemia so that effective treatment can be prescribed.
• The course of hemolytic anemia depends on the cause and the severity of the anemia. Mild hemolytic anemia may need no treatment. If you have an inherited form of hemolytic anemia, it’s a lifelong condition that may require ongoing treatment. If a medicine or infection causes the anemia, it may go away when the medicine is stopped or the infection is cured. Severe hemolytic anemia can be life threatening if it’s not treated.
• Treatments for hemolytic anemia include blood transfusion, medicines, plasmapheresis (treatment to remove antibodies from red blood cells), surgery, bone marrow or stem cell transplant, and lifestyle changes.
• People with hemolytic anemia may need to avoid certain sports or activities that could worsen their condition or lead to complications. A doctor can recommend safe types and amounts of physical activity.