Mechanical hemolytic anemia

Mechanical Hemolytic Anemia

Red blood cells, the primary cells affected in mechanical hemolytic anemia

Mechanical hemolytic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the destruction of red blood cells due to physical forces. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including mechanical heart valves, vascular abnormalities, and certain medical procedures.

Causes

Mechanical hemolytic anemia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Mechanical heart valves: These devices can cause damage to red blood cells as they pass through the valve, leading to hemolysis.
• Vascular abnormalities: Conditions such as aortic stenosis and mitral stenosis can cause increased turbulence in the blood flow, leading to damage to red blood cells.
• Medical procedures: Certain procedures, such as cardiopulmonary bypass surgery, can cause mechanical damage to red blood cells.

Symptoms

The symptoms of mechanical hemolytic anemia can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but may include:

• Fatigue
• Pale skin
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid heart rate
• Jaundice

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of mechanical hemolytic anemia typically involves a combination of blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), reticulocyte count, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level. In some cases, a blood smear may also be performed to examine the shape and size of the red blood cells.

Treatment

Treatment for mechanical hemolytic anemia typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve surgery to repair or replace a faulty heart valve, treatment of vascular abnormalities, or changes to medical procedures to reduce damage to red blood cells.

See Also

• Anemia
• Hemolysis
• Red blood cell