Etymed
spherocytosis
Definition
A hereditary hemolytic anemia characterized by the presence of spherical red blood cells that are fragile and prone to hemolysis
Clinical context
A 28-year-old woman presents with fatigue and shortness of breath. Physical examination reveals splenomegaly and jaundice. Laboratory studies show elevated indirect bilirubin and reticulocyte count. Peripheral blood smear reveals spherical red blood cells with decreased surface area. The patient is diagnosed with hereditary spherocytosis.
Mnemonic
SPHERE - Spherical cells, Hemolysis, Porphyrinuria, Reticulocytosis, Enlarged spleen, Hyperbilirubinemia