Causes Of Acquired Hemolytic Anemia

Some Infections

Acquired autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) accounts for half of the cases of acquired hemolytic anemia and may come on quickly and become a serious condition. Some infections can increase your risk for AIHA, including mycoplasma pneumoniae, sometimes called 'walking pneumonia,' which can cause or worsen hemolytic anemia; as well as malaria and one of its most dangerous complications called blackwater fever that brings on a rapidly developing anemia. Also watch for tick-borne diseases such as babesiosis, with its microscopic parasites that infect red blood cells, and septicemia, a form of blood poisoning that may arise from toxins or bacterial infection.

Some snake venom contains hemolytic toxins, but many toxins and chemicals can enter the bloodstream through the skin without a prick, puncture, or bite. While there are too many to list, it is wise to consider some of the products you might use every day without thinking of how their contents may enter the bloodstream through skin absorption such as lotions, creams, oils, talc-based powders, hair care products, nail polish, bubble baths, fragrances, and deodorants. It is vital to read the labels of products to avoid toxic ones.

Managing the underlying illness may be the first treatment. In severe cases of anemia, you may require a blood transfusion, although this is only a temporary treatment. Steroids are most often the first treatment for symptoms if they get worse. If steroids fail to work, your doctor may surgically remove the spleen, the primary source of red blood cell destruction. If spleen removal fails to work, doctors may suggest patients take immunosuppressants to prevent the proteins produced in the system that attack the red blood cells. However, these medications leave patients vulnerable to infections. Your doctor will weigh the risks versus the benefits when deciding on which medication to suggest.

Continue reading to understand more about what can cause hemolytic anemia now.