Hemolytic anemia caused by chemicals and toxins

Definition:
Hemolytic anemia or destruction of red blood cells can be caused by factors other than disease.

Possible chemical or physical causes of hemolysis of red blood cells and hemolytic anemia include:
  • Anti-malaria drugs (quinolone compounds)
  • Sulfones
  • Sulfonamides (sulfasalazine)
  • Nitrofurantoin
  • Phenazopyridine
  • Pyridium
  • Intravenous water (not half-normal saline or normal saline)
  • Arsenic
  • Metals (chromium/chromates, platinum salts, nickel compounds, copper, lead, cis-platinum)
  • Snake bite (some snake venom contains hemolytic toxins)


Alternative Names:
Anemia - hemolytic - caused by chemicals or toxins


The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.