Congenital spherocytic anemia

Alternative names:

hereditary spherocytosis; spherocytosis

Treatment:

Splenectomy (surgical removal of the spleen) cures the anemia of spherocytosis. Although the abnormal cell defect persists, the red cell life span returns to normal.

Families with a history of spherocytosis should have their children screened for this disorder. In mild cases discovered in adult life, splenectomy may not be necessary. Splenectomy should be delayed in children until the age of 5 to prevent unnecessary infection. Pneumococcal immunization (vaccine) is given prior to the surgery. Folic acid supplementation can be given to children.

Expectations (prognosis):

This outcome is usually good with treatment.

Complications:

• development of gallstones from the pigment derived from the destroyed red blood cells
• aplastic crises caused by a viral infection

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment or if new symptoms develop.