Erythrocyte Destruction

Question 1

Lysis of RBCs by Macrophages in the spleen and sometimes liver or bone marrow. Represents majority (90%) of normal erythrocyte destruction

Answer 1

Extravascular Hemolysis

Question 2

Lysis of RBCs within the circulation. Represents only about 10% of normal erythrocyte destruction

Answer 2

Intravascular Hemolysis

Question 3

What are the key features of Extravascular Hemolysis?

Answer 3

Microspherocytes
Increased Lactate Dehydrogenase
Normal to decreased Haptoglobin
Increased Bilirubin 1 and Total Bilirubin
Increased Urine and Fecal Urobilinogen

Question 4

What are the key features of Intravascular Hemolysis?

Answer 4

Schistocytes
Increased Lactate Dehydrogenase
Decreased Haptoglobin
Increased Free (plasma) Hgb
Increased urine Hgb
Increased Bilirubin 1
Triggers Complement Activation