Hereditary spherocytosis is an autosomal dominant defect of the RBC membrane leading to the formation of extremely vulnerable, defective RBCs known as spherocytes. These cells are prematurely destroyed in the spleen, leading to hemolytic anemia.

Characteristics

  • Most common hereditary hemolytic anemia in Northern Europeans.
  • Parvovirus B19 can exacerbate the anemia by causing aplastic crisis.

Pathophysiology

The defect is usually in ankyrin or spectrin, which are structural proteins, leading to

Subscribe now to continue reading

Join hundreds of successful students who use Meddists to ace their exams.

Gain access to all of the material and topics, custom-made just for you.

Continue