Haemolytic

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Haemolytic refers to the destruction of red blood cells, a process that can lead to conditions such as haemolytic anaemia. This process can occur due to various reasons, including immune system dysfunction, infections, and certain genetic conditions.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Haemolysis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Immune system dysfunction: The immune system may mistakenly identify red blood cells as foreign substances and destroy them.
  • Infections: Certain infections can cause haemolysis, including malaria and sepsis.
  • Genetic conditions: Certain genetic conditions, such as sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia, can cause haemolysis.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of haemolysis can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Pale or yellowish skin
  • Dark urine

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of haemolysis typically involves a series of tests, including:

  • Blood tests: These can help determine the number of red blood cells in the blood and whether they are being destroyed at an abnormal rate.
  • Bone marrow tests: These can help identify any problems with the production of red blood cells.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for haemolysis depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

  • Treating the underlying cause: This may involve medication to treat an infection or immune system disorder, or surgery to remove a problematic spleen.
  • Blood transfusions: In severe cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary to replace the destroyed red blood cells.
  • Medications: Certain medications can help increase the production of red blood cells or reduce the rate at which they are destroyed.

See also[edit | edit source]

Haemolytic Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD