Hemolytic Anemia - Why do I have it?

Posted by bob70 @bob70, Jan 23 6:56pm

I have been treating with a hemotolgist/oncologist going on 4 years. I have been tested for everything. The only concrete diagnosis is hemolytic anemia. Cannot figure out what is causing it. My RBC are the lowest they have been. Cannot take Ritaximb had an allergic reaction. Currently on cyclophosphomide but does not seem to be helping. Look for others that may be experiencing the same. Any ideas where to turn to try and figure out what is causing this.

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Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | Jan 24 9:42am

Welcome to Connect, @bob70. According to Healthline.com, “Hemolytic anemia occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than your bone marrow can make them. This can be caused by diseases, autoimmune disorders, or cancer. The treatment depends on the cause.”
https://www.healthline.com/health/hemolytic-anemia
What you’d like to know is the cause…this has to be so frustrating for you after going through 4 years of tests with no firm diagnosis. What type of reaction did you have to the Rituximab? It’s not unusual to have a reaction with the first infusion. Most often a quick dose of Benadryl or a steroid in the IV, along with slowing the drip takes care of that. Was your reaction more longterm?

There are quite a few discussions in the forum with other members who have hemolytic anemia. There are too many to list here but if you’d type Hemolytic Anemia in the upper search window, you’ll get a full display of relevant conversations where you may find a fellow member with the same issue.

When you’ve mentioned being tested for everything, did this include for autoimmune diseases? How about a bone marrow biopsy?

leilab1 | @leilab1 | Jan 26 5:41am

Is there any history of this in your family background?

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