Introduction to the Classification of Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia can be classified into several types based on the underlying cause and mechanism of red blood cell destruction. Here are some of the main classifications:

1. Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA):
   - Warm AIHA (wAIHA): Most common type, where IgG autoantibodies attack RBCs at body temperature.
   - Cold AIHA (cAIHA): IgM autoantibodies attack RBCs at cold temperatures.
2. Alloimmune Hemolytic Anemia:
   - Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (HDFN): Maternal antibodies attack fetal RBCs.
   - Blood Transfusion Reactions: Incompatible blood transfusion leads to hemolysis.
3. Mechanical Hemolytic Anemia:
   - Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA): RBCs are damaged due to abnormal blood vessels or prosthetic heart valves.
   - Macroangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia: RBCs are damaged due to large blood vessel abnormalities.
4. Inherited Hemolytic Anemia:
   - Hereditary Spherocytosis (HS): RBCs are abnormally shaped and fragile.
   - Hereditary Elliptocytosis (HE): RBCs are abnormally shaped and fragile.
   - Hereditary Stomatocytosis (HSt): RBCs have abnormal membrane permeability.
5. Acquired Hemolytic Anemia:
   - Drug-induced Hemolytic Anemia
   - Toxin-induced Hemolytic Anemia
   - Infection-related Hemolytic Anemia (e.g., malaria)
6. Membrane Disorders:
   - Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH): RBCs are abnormally sensitive to complement-mediated hemolysis.

This classification is not exhaustive, and some cases may overlap between categories. Accurate diagnosis and classification are crucial for appropriate management and treatment.

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