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Hemolytic anemia

Hemolytic anemia is an inadequate amount of red blood cells, caused by the rapid destruction of red blood cells in the blood or spleen. Symptoms of hemolytic anemia may include fever, chills, shortness of breath, and a rapid heart rate.

Infection, some medications and other substances, and certain inherited diseases (such as sickle cell disease) can cause hemolytic anemia. Treatment for hemolytic anemia varies depending on the cause.

Author Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Brian Leber, MDCM, FRCPC - Hematology
Last Updated August 19, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 19, 2008
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