Medical Services

Hemolytic anemia is a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them, resulting in reduced oxygen delivery to tissues. The causes can be intrinsic, like hereditary disorders affecting the red cell membrane or hemoglobin (such as sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, and hereditary spherocytosis), or extrinsic, such as immune reactions, infections, certain medications, or mechanical damage from artificial heart valves. Symptoms often include fatigue, pallor, jaundice from increased bilirubin, and sometimes dark urine due to hemoglobin breakdown products.

Diagnosis is based on blood tests showing anemia, elevated reticulocyte counts, and markers of red cell destruction. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, ranging from removing an offending drug or treating an infection, to managing immune causes with corticosteroids or immunosuppressive agents. Prompt management is essential to prevent complications such as heart failure or severe anemia.