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Congenital spherocytic anemia

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Red blood cells, normal
Red blood cells, normal
Red blood cells, spherocytosis
Red blood cells, spherocytosis
Blood cells
Blood cells

Alternative Names    Return to top

Hereditary spherocytosis; Spherocytosis

Definition    Return to top

Congenital spherocytic anemia is a disorder of the surface layer (membrane) of red blood cells. It leads to red blood cells that are shaped like spheres, and premature breakdown of red blood cells (hemolytic anemia).

Causes    Return to top

This disorder is caused by a defective gene. The defect results in an abnormal red blood cell membrane. The affected cells have a smaller surface area for their volume than normal red blood cells, and can break open easily. Having a family history of spherocytosis increases the risk for this disorder.

The anemia can vary from mild to severe. In severe cases the disorder may be found in early childhood. In mild cases it may go unnoticed until adulthood.

This disorder is most common in people of northern European descent, but it has been found in all races.

Symptoms    Return to top

Infants may have yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) and pale coloring (pallor).

Other symptoms may include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

In most cases, the spleen is enlarged.

Laboratory tests can help diagnose this condition. Tests may include:

Treatment    Return to top

Surgery to remove the spleen (splenectomy) cures the anemia but doesn't correct the abnormal cell shape.

Families with a history of spherocytosis should have their children screened for this disorder.

Children should wait until age 5 to have splenectomy because of the infection risk. In mild cases discovered in adults, it may not be necessary to remove the spleen.

Children are given a pneumonia vaccine (pneumococcal immunization) before spleen removal surgery, and also may receive folic acid supplements.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

This outcome is usually good with treatment. After the spleen is removed, the life span of the red blood cell returns to normal.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider for an appointment if your symptoms get worse, do not improve with treatment, or if you develop new symptoms.

Prevention    Return to top

This is an inherited disorder and may not be preventable. Being aware of your risk, such as a family history of the disorder, may help you get diagnosed and treated early.

References    Return to top

Golan DE. Hemolytic anemias: red cell membrane and metabolic disorders. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 165.

Update Date: 11/8/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and James R. Mason, MD, Oncologist, Director, Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program and Stem Cell Processing Lab, Scripps Clinic, Torrey Pines, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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