At a Glance Lead poisoning can cause anemia. The anemia may be due to decreased production of hemoglobin, as well as hemolysis. Signs of hemolysis may include scleral icterus and jaundice. Other symptoms associated with lead poisoning are covered in the chapter on laboratory testing for lead. What Tests Should I Request to Confirm My…
At a Glance Autoimmune hemolysis is an important component in the differential of acquired anemia. Hemolytic anemia should be considered in patients without an obvious cause of anemia (e.g., bleeding). Signs of autoimmune hemolysis may include scleral icterus and jaundice. Malignant diseases, such as lymphoma, and autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, may be associated with…
At a Glance All pregnant women should be tested for red cell alloantibodies. Detection of a clinically significant alloantibody may put the fetus at risk for hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). Predelivery antibody titers, as well as the paternal phenotype can help predict risk to the fetus. Fetal anemia may be detected by obstetric…
At a Glance Drug-induced immune hemolysis is an important component in the differential of acquired anemia. Hemolytic anemia should be considered in patients without an obvious cause of anemia (e.g., bleeding). Signs of drug-induced immune hemolysis may include scleral icterus and jaundice. The patient’s medication list should be carefully reviewed. Aldomet and fludarabine cause hemolytic…
