Understanding Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA)
Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) is a serious condition that occurs when the movement of blood within the body is turbulent, leading to the destruction of red blood cells. This destruction, known as hemolysis, results in the formation of schistocytes – fragments of red blood cells that have a characteristic triangle or helmet shape, unlike the round usual shape of healthy red blood cells.
Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) occurs when turbulence in the blood destroys red blood cells. This leads to symptoms such as tiredness and shortness of breath. Certain treatments are available.
Treatment for MAHA can range from blood transfusion to the use of antibiotics.
MAHA is a condition that involves the destruction of too many red blood cells. This process is known as “hemolysis.”
MAHA occurs when excessive movement of the blood causes hemolysis. This results in the formation of schistocytes, which are fragments of red blood cells. Whole red blood cells have a round shape, whereas schistocytes are triangle- or helmet-shaped.
Triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia
Several health conditions involve MAHA. One of these is hemolytic uremic syndrome.
As a
Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia vs. disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Instead, the
In its first phase, overacting clotting mechanisms cause blood clotting throughout the body. In its second phase, bleeding develops because the body has overused blood clotting resources, such as platelets and clotting factors.
Symptoms of Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia:
Symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, weakness, fainting, and shortness of breath, are common in MAHA. Symptoms specific to the underlying cause may also be present. For example, hemolytic uremic syndrome can also cause:
-
- Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
- Kidney failure
(PAIN 1)
Any person experiencing symptoms of hemolytic uremic syndrome should seek immediate medical attention.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors can diagnose MAHA through blood tests. However, identifying the underlying cause is crucial, and this often requires additional tests, such as:
- ADAMTS13 enzyme blood test
- ADAMTS13 enzyme inhibitor blood test
- Complement factor protein blood test
- Shiga toxin stool test
Treatment for MAHA depends on the underlying cause.
- Sometimes, adjustments to fluid intake, blood transfusions, and certain antibodies can be helpful.
-
Individuals with cancer might require specific antivirals and antibiotics.
Life Expectancy & Common Causes
Predicting the life expectancy for someone with MAHA is complex and depends largely on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Unfortunately, there isn’t a definitive answer regarding the most common cause of hemolytic anemia.
Need More Information?
Talk to your doctor for personalized advice about MAHA.
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