Excessive Destruction of Red Blood Cells

>  

Old red blood cells are destroyed in the liver and spleens by a process called hemolysis. If hemolysis occurs faster than the production of new red blood cells, anemia results. Such hemolytic anemia may be caused by inherited defects in the red blood cells or it may be acquired.

Hereditary causes of hemolytic anemia include sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, disorders that affect the hemoglobin portion of red blood cells. 

Other hereditary defects may involve the cell membrane or the enzymes of the red blood cells. All of the hereditary disorder produce abnormal red blood cells, which are destroyed faster than normal.

Acquired hemolytic anemia can occur if severe burns or infections damage the red blood cells. In some cases, the body produces abnormal antibodies, called auto antibodies, which attack the person’s own red blood cells.

Back