Microangiopathic Anemia

Introduction

• RBCs are damaged in systemic circulation due to sharp microthrombi lining small vessels
• Associated conditions
  • DIC
  • TTP-HUS
  • SLE
• malignant hypertension

Presentation

• Symptoms
• anemia

Evaluation

• Blood smear 
  • schistocytes (helmet cells) (indicated by arrow in image above)
    • due to shearing mechanical destruction