Microangiopathic anemias refer to a group of blood disorders characterized by the formation of small blood clots in the tiny blood vessels, known as microvessels or capillaries. These conditions are termed "microangiopathic" because they involve the abnormalities in the small blood vessels.
This type of anemia is caused by the mechanical destruction of red blood cells (RBCs) as they pass through the narrowed or damaged microvessels. The abnormal vessel walls can be a result of various factors, such as fibrin clots, platelet aggregates, or endothelial injury. As the RBCs traverse these damaged vessels, they become fragmented or sheared, leading to their destruction and subsequent anemia.
Common causes of microangiopathic anemias include conditions like thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and certain medications, such as chemotherapy agents.
Symptoms of microangiopathic anemias may include fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, and weakness, as the destruction of RBCs leads to a reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. Additionally, patients may also experience symptoms related to the underlying cause of the microangiopathy, such as kidney dysfunction in cases of HUS.
Treatment for microangiopathic anemias aims to address the underlying cause, if possible, and manage the anemia itself. This may involve treating the primary disease, such as plasma exchange or corticosteroids in cases of TTP, or supportive measures, like blood transfusions, to alleviate anemia-related symptoms.
