hemolysis basics

Question 1

what are the two mechanisms associated with normocytic anemias ?

Answer 1

either underproduction by the bone marrow - non hemolytic
or increased destruction - hemolytic

Question 2

what are the two causes of hemolytic anemias ?

Answer 2

intrinsic vs extrinsic

Question 3

what are the hallmarks of hemolysis ?

Answer 3

normocytic anemia
decreased haptoglobin levels
increased lactate dehydrogenase levels
increased number of reticulocytes

Question 4

what does the reticulocyte count in normocytic anemia ?

Answer 4

if there is a high number of reticulocyte - means theres increased destruction
if there is a low reticulocyte count then this means there is underproduction

Question 5

what are the consequences of hemolysis ?

Answer 5

1- elevated indirect bilirubin which causes jaundice
2- increased risk of pigment stones

Question 6

what are the urine findings associated with hemolysis ?

Answer 6

no bilirubin in the urine
hemoglobiunuria

Question 7

what is the effect of parvovirus on RBCs ?

Answer 7

causes decreased erythropoeisis cause aplastic crisis

Question 8

what is the classic scenario associated with parvovirus b19 ?

Answer 8

worsening anemia and a low reticulocyte count