Haemolytic anaemia

Acquired disorders

Autoimmune haemolytic anaemias can be transient in children but are often recurrent in adults. Those related to lymphoproliferative disorder may parallel the course of the underlying disease. Infection or toxin-related haemolysis will usually resolve with treatment or removal of the underlying cause. If a drug is suspected as the cause, avoidance of that drug is advisable. Other causes will not necessarily result in repeat haemolysis if exposed, although progression of a lymphoproliferative disease can be associated with recurrent haemolysis.

Congenital disorders

Red blood cell membrane defects will often improve with splenectomy. Enzyme defects such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency will persist and require avoidance of precipitating drugs. Haemoglobinopathies will persist and require supportive care in repeated exacerbations.