August 20, 2015 - Hemolysis

Question 1

Hemolysis

Answer 1

Any process that leads to the decreased life span of a red blood cell.

Specifically refers to many causes of accelerated destruction of RBCs. This is usually due to RBC membrane damage or RBC deformability.

Question 2

Marrow Response to Hemolytic Anemia

Answer 2

Increased erythropoietin production from the kidneys.

Increased utilization of folate, iron, and B12.

Increased number of reticulocytes.

Question 3

Reticulocyte Count

Answer 3

Key test to assess for hemolysis (or bleeding), assuming marrow function is normal.

Normally, about 1% of RBCs are in turnover.

Question 4

Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency

Answer 4

Leads to increased hemolysis.

Question 5

G6PD Deficiency

Answer 5

Leads to increased hemolysis.

Question 6

Direct Antiglobulin Test

Answer 6

Used to detect antibodies and complement bound to RBCs.

Question 7

MAHA - Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia

Answer 7

Blood cells are sheared in the veins.