What Causes Jaundice?

Hemolytic Anemia

Red blood cells are produced by the bone marrow in the body. If these cells are destroyed more quickly than they can be produced, this results in an imbalance known as hemolytic anemia. This condition can be caused by infections, leukemia, lymphoma, and autoimmune conditions, and it is a potential side effect of some medications, including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and penicillin. In addition to jaundice, hemolytic anemia patients could experience fatigue, heart murmurs, dizziness, rapid heart rate, and an enlargement of the spleen or liver. Doctors will check for hemolytic anemia by performing a physical examination of the spleen and liver to measure their size. Blood tests will be performed to check the patient's liver function and levels of hemoglobin, reticulocytes, and bilirubin. Patients with hemolytic anemia may be given a transfusion of red blood cells, and individuals who have an underlying autoimmune condition might need to have intravenous immunoglobulin or immunosuppressants. In cases of severe hemolytic anemia that do not respond to conservative treatment options, doctors may recommend the patient consider having their spleen removed. This can reduce the speed at which red blood cells are destroyed.

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