A Comprehensive Guide To Sickle Cell Anemia

Other Types of Inherited Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia is a condition that causes red blood cells to die or be destroyed faster than replacements are made. While sickle cell anemia is the most common type of inherited hemolytic anemia, there are other types as well. These include red cell membrane disorders, pyruvate kinase deficiency, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. With a membrane disorder, the membrane of red blood cells becomes too easily damaged or is incomplete. Pyruvate kinase deficiency, meanwhile, is caused by a mutation in an individual's PKLR gene. This gene creates an enzyme known as pyruvate kinase, which is essential in breaking down glucose to give red blood cells energy. When there isn't enough of this enzyme, the body can't convert enough glucose into energy. G6PD deficiency occurs when the body doesn't produce enough G6PD, an enzyme that makes red blood cells work. This enzyme also protects the cells from substances that could cause them harm.