What are the Types of Hemolytic Anemia?
What is Intrinsic Hemolytic Anemia?
Intrinsic hemolytic anemias are genetic conditions that you are born with. These are called congenital hemolytic anemias. There are many types of congenital hemolytic anemias. This includes sickle cell anemia, hereditary spherocytosis, pyruvate kinase deficiency, and G6PD deficiency.
What is Extrinsic Hemolytic Anemia?
Extrinsic hemolytic anemias occur after you are born. They are caused by immune problems, medicines and other factors. The most common extrinsic form is autoimmune hemolytic anemia. This is when your body’s immune system becomes confused and makes antibodies that attack your own blood cells. When your body attacks its own cells, it is called “autoimmune.” In autoimmune hemolytic anemia, your body’s immune system thinks that your own blood cells are “foreign” to your body. Your system targets these blood cells to be destroyed and removed by the spleen. The exact cause is not always known, but it can be triggered by a viral illness or by vaccinations. This process can be very quick. It can lead to low blood counts and the need for a hospital stay. A blood transfusion may be needed. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is treated with medicines such as steroids. Steroids decrease the intensity of the immune system. Treatment must often continue for a long time until the immune system stops destroying blood cells.
