hematology and oncology
Overview of Hemolytic Anemia
Treatment of Hemolytic Anemia
Treatment depends on the specific mechanism of hemolysis. Corticosteroids are helpful in the initial treatment of warm antibody autoimmune hemolysis. Technique of Transfusion are used in patients with symptomatic anemia or when there is reticulocytopenia because the transfused cells will resist destruction for longer than the patient's red cells. Splenectomy is beneficial in some situations, particularly when splenic sequestration is the major cause of RBC destruction. If possible, splenectomy is delayed until 2 weeks after vaccination with the following: Pneumococcal Vaccine None Haemophilus influenzae Type b (Hib) Vaccine None Meningococcal Vaccine None In cold agglutinin disease, avoidance of cold is recommended, and blood will need to be warmed before transfusion. Folate replacement is needed for patients with ongoing long-term hemolysis. 