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Lifespan’s A - Z Health Information Library |
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Drug-induced immune hemolytic anemiaDefinitionDrug-induced immune hemolytic anemia is a blood disorder that occurs when a medicine triggers the body's defense (immune) system to attack its own red blood cells. This causes red blood cells to break down earlier than normal. See also: Hemolytic anemia Alternative NamesImmune hemolytic anemia secondary to drugs; Anemia - immune hemolytic - secondary to drugs CausesIn some cases, a drug can cause the immune system to mistakenly think your own red blood cells are dangerous, foreign substances. Antibodies then develop against the red blood cells. The antibodies attach to red blood cells and cause them to break down too early. Drugs that can cause this type of hemolytic anemia include:
There are many other rarer causes of drug-induced hemolytic anemia. This includes hemolytic anemia associated with glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. But in this case, the breakdown of red blood cells is due to a certain type of stress in the cell, not the body's immune system. Drug-induced hemolytic anemia is rare in children. Symptoms
Exams and TestsA physical examination may show an enlarged spleen. A number of blood and urine tests may be done to help diagnose this condition. Tests may include:
TreatmentStopping the drug that is causing the problem may relieve or control the symptoms. Some persons may be given a medicine called prednisone to reduce the immune response against the red blood cells. Special blood transfusions may be needed to treat severe symptoms. Outlook (Prognosis)Most patients have a good outcome if they stop taking the drug that is causing the problem. Possible ComplicationsDeath caused by severe anemia is rare. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalSee your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition. PreventionYou should continue to avoid the drug that caused this condition. ReferencesSchwartz R. Autoimmune and intravascular hemolytic anemia. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 164. Review Date: 3/2/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any
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