What are the causes of hemolytic jaundice?
Aug 26, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, hemolytic jaundice may be caused by factors such as incompatible blood transfusion, intense physical exercise, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, and hypersplenism. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Daily precautions include avoiding fatigue, maintaining a regular作息 (作息 translates to作息 schedule or routine), and following a light, easily digestible diet.
Generally, hemolytic jaundice may be caused by factors such as incompatible blood transfusion, intense physical exercise, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, and hypersplenism. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and receive symptomatic treatment under a physician's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Incompatible blood transfusion: Transfusion of blood with an incompatible blood type can cause massive destruction of red blood cells, releasing excessive bilirubin and resulting in jaundice. Blood transfusion should be stopped immediately, and normal saline should be administered as prescribed to maintain circulation. Plasma exchange may be necessary to remove abnormal antibodies and damaged red blood cells.
2. Intense physical exercise: Prolonged high-intensity physical activity may mechanically damage and rupture red blood cells, leading to transient jaundice. Physical activity should be stopped immediately, bed rest is recommended, and adequate hydration and electrolyte replacement should be ensured. Avoiding strenuous activity in the short term will allow jaundice to gradually subside.
3. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia: The body produces antibodies that attack its own red blood cells, causing their destruction and resulting in jaundice. This condition is often accompanied by fatigue and pallor. Patients may take medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, azathioprine tablets, and cyclophosphamide tablets as directed by a physician to suppress the immune response.
4. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency: Patients with this condition lack the enzyme in their red blood cells, making these cells prone to rupture upon exposure to fava beans or certain drugs, leading to jaundice. Patients should avoid consuming fava beans and exposure to triggering drugs. During acute episodes, medications such as sodium bicarbonate injection, vitamin C injection, and reduced glutathione injection may be used as prescribed to protect red blood cells.
5. Hypersplenism: Excessive destruction of red blood cells by the spleen leads to elevated bilirubin levels and jaundice, often accompanied by splenomegaly. Patients may undergo splenectomy as directed by a physician to reduce red blood cell destruction. Postoperative infection prevention may involve medications such as ceftriaxone sodium injection, amoxicillin capsules, and levofloxacin tablets.
In daily life, patients should avoid fatigue, maintain a regular routine, and follow a light, easily digestible diet, avoiding foods or medications that might trigger hemolysis. Regular follow-up tests, including complete blood count and bilirubin levels, are necessary to monitor disease progression.
