Treatment depends upon the type and cause of the hemolytic anemia. Folic acid , iron replacement, and corticosteroids may be used. In emergencies, transfusion of typed and washed packed red cell may be necessary. The outcome depends upon the type of hemolytic anemia. The complications vary with the specific type of hemolytic anemia.
Severe anemia can cause cardiovascular collapse.
Severe anemias can aggravate pre-existing heart disease , lung disease , or cerebrovascular disease . Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of hemolytic anemia develop. A small amount of bone marrow is removed during a bone marrow aspiration. The procedure is uncomfortable, but can be tolerated by both children and adults. The abnormal hemoglobin causes deformity of the red blood cells into crescent or sickle-shapes, as seen in this photomicrograph.