Hemolytic Anemia | Symptoms & Causes
What are the symptoms of hemolytic anemia?
It is important to understand some symptoms of anemias may resemble those of other more common medical problems or other blood disorders. Because some of these symptoms can also point to other conditions, and because anemia itself can be a symptom of another medical problem, it’s important to have your child evaluated by a qualified medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment.
- pale skin
- jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes
- dark-colored urine
- fever
- weakness
- fast heart beat
What causes hemolytic anemia?
Hemolytic anemia may be caused by several different factors that may be difficult to isolate. It is important to talk to your child's doctor about possible underlying conditions that may cause hemolytic anemia. Hemolytic anemia can be categorized into two types — inherited and acquired.
Hemolytic Anemia | Diagnosis & Treatments
How is hemolytic anemia diagnosed?
Typically a physical exam and blood tests are used to diagnose hemolytic anemia. Additional procedures may include a urine, bone marrow, or genetic test. People who are diagnosed with mild hemolytic anemia may not need treatment at all. For others, hemolytic anemia can often be treated or controlled.
What are the treatments for hemolytic anemia?
Hemolytic anemia treatments vary depending on the type and cause of the disease and may include:
- steroid therapy to decrease the immune system attack on the red blood cells
- red blood cell transfusion, may be used when anemia is severe or therapy is ineffective
If a child has severe hemolytic anemia, hospitalization may be needed for the following:
- exchange transfusion to replace damaged blood with fresh blood
- surgery to remove the spleen (usually reserved for children who don’t respond to other therapies)
How we care for hemolytic anemia
Children and young adults with hemolytic anemia are treated at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center through our Blood Disorders Center. Our program brings together world-renown pediatric hematology specialists and support staff from across Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s, including pediatric hematologist/oncologists, hematopathologists, hematology nurse practitioners, social workers and designated hematology patient coordinators. For many appointments and certain procedures, your child can also receive care at one of Boston Children's satellite offices.
