Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia

A form of haemolytic anaemia (loss of red blood cells through destruction) caused by factors in the small blood vessels. It is identified by the finding of anaemia and schistocytes ("bite cells") on microscopy of the blood film.

The most important causes are:

• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
• Eclampsia
• Several others