A kind of anemia known as microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) is characterized by hemolysis the breakdown of red blood cells within tiny blood vessels. It frequently involves the development of blood clots inside these veins, which worsens hemolysis.
MAHA is crucial because, if untreated, it can result in substantial morbidity and mortality. Anaemia is brought on by the breakdown of red blood cells and can result in weakness, exhaustion, and breathlessness which disturb the overall quality of a person’s life. When MAHA is severe, it may result in organ failure or damage, stroke, or even death. For better results, MAHA must be managed and identified early.
Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia ICD 10
Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia ICD 10 code is D59.4.This code is used to identify cases of MAHA in medical records and is used by healthcare professionals, doctors, and organizations for tracking and analysis purposes and helps in keeping records of hospital bills.
The D59.4 code is further broken down into subcategories or subgroups based on the cause of the MAHA. For example, D59.41 is used for MAHA caused by an infection, such as Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) or Streptococcus pneumoniae. D59.42 is used for MAHA caused by medications or drugs, such as chemotherapy or quinine. D59.43 is used for MAHA caused by autoimmune disorders. It means the code will slightly change according to the cause that developed MAHA.
You May Also Like To Read: Iron Deficiency Anemia ICD 10: Unpacking Iron Deficiency Anemia
Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia Causes
Here are some of the common causes of MAHA:
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA)
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a disorder in which the microvasculature develops tiny blood clots (microthrombi). Numerous conditions and medications, including chemotherapy and immunosuppressive drugs, bacterial infections like Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Streptococcus pneumoniae, autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and pregnancy-related problems like preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome can all contribute to TMA.
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC)
DIC is a condition in which the body’s normal blood clotting mechanisms become overactive and lead to the formation of small blood clots throughout the body. These clots can consume clotting factors and platelets, leading to bleeding disorders and the destruction of red blood cells. DIC can be caused by a variety of factors, including sepsis, trauma, and cancer.
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)
HUS is a condition characterized by the formation of small blood clots within the microvasculature of the kidneys, leading to kidney damage and the destruction of red blood cells. HUS is most commonly caused by infection with a strain of Escherichia coli bacteria known as E. coli O157:H7, although other infectious and non-infectious causes have also been reported.
Malignant Hypertension
A severe form of high blood pressure that can cause the development of tiny blood clots inside the microvasculature of the kidneys, brain, and other organs is known as malignant hypertension. Red blood cell death and tissue damage may result from this.
HELLP Syndrome
Hemolysis, increased liver enzymes, and a low platelet count are all characteristics of the pregnancy condition known as HELLP syndrome. It can result in the death of red blood cells within the microvasculature and is thought to be brought on by aberrant blood vessel activity.
Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune illness in which particular blood proteins are attacked by the body’s immune system, causing blood clots and other difficulties. Small blood clots that form as a result of APS can harm the tissue and kill red blood cells by obstructing the microvasculature.
Other Cause
Other factors Infections like malaria and babesiosis, drugs like quinine and ticlopidine, and inherited diseases like atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and hereditary thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (hTTP) are some of the less frequent causes of Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA).
You May Also Like To Read: Iron Deficiency Anemia ICD 10: Unpacking Iron Deficiency Anemia
Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia Symptoms
The symptoms of Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA) can vary from person to person because of the different causes of developing this disease. However, some common symptoms of MAHA include:
Fatigue_Anemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells can lead to fatigue and weakness. A person feels fatigued continuously during this illness.
Jaundice_The destruction of red blood cells can lead to an accumulation of bilirubin, a pigment that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Dark urine_The breakdown of red blood cells can lead to the production of hemoglobin, which can be excreted in the urine and cause it to appear dark or tea-colored not like normal urine.
Abdominal pain_In some cases of MAHA, can lead to the formation of blood clots or accumulation of blood within the small blood vessels of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to abdominal pain.
Neurological symptoms_ In Severe cases of MAHA, lead to the formation of blood clots within the small blood vessels of the brain and can lead to neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, and coma, and affect a person’s life badly.
Kidney dysfunction_MAHA can lead to kidney dysfunction due to the formation of blood clots within the small blood vessels of the kidneys.
It means it can create blood clots in vessels all over the body. Because blood clots stop the blood to flow in the body so which leads to dangerous complications.
You May Also Like To Read: Vitamin D Deficiency ICD 10: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Diagnosis Of Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia
The diagnosis of MAHA includes numerous tests which figure out the cause of this disease and also help to see the extent of organ damage.
Medical History Review And Physical Exam
To find any Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA) symptoms or signs, such as jaundice, abdominal discomfort, or neurological symptoms, the doctor will review the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical exam.
Laboratory Tests
Blood tests will be prescribed to check the levels of hemoglobin, red blood cells, and other blood constituents. Red blood cell and hemoglobin levels are frequently lowered in MAHA, and the number of reticulocytes (immature red blood cells) may rise. Schistocytes, which are broken-up red blood cells, can also be observed on a blood smear.
Coagulation Tests
Blood clotting tests may be ordered to evaluate the patient’s risk of developing blood clots, which can be a complication of MAHA. These tests can include prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), and fibrinogen levels.
Kidney Function Tests
Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA) can lead to kidney dysfunction, so tests to evaluate kidney function may be ordered, such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests may be ordered to evaluate the extent of organ damage and to identify any blood clots. These tests can include ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Underlying Cause Evaluation
Depending on the results of the above tests, further testing may be needed to identify the underlying cause of the MAHA, such as an infection or autoimmune disorder.
This series of tests help to find which treatment course is best for the patient.
Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia Treatment
The treatment of Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA) depends upon many factors and the aim of treatment is to halt the destruction of red blood cells, manage symptoms, and prevent complications.
Treating the underlying cause
If Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA) is caused by an infection, medication, or autoimmune disorder, treating the root cause is necessary to stop the destruction of red blood cells. This may involve antibiotics, discontinuing medications, or immunosuppressive therapy.
Blood Transfusions
In situations with severe MAHA, blood transfusions may be required to replenish the red blood cells that have been lost and to enhance the supply of oxygen to the body’s tissues.
Plasma Exchange
Plasma exchange may be performed to eliminate the antibodies from the blood and lessen the death of red blood cells in some instances of MAHA brought on by an autoimmune illness. This medical care is excellent.
Dialysis
Dialysis may be required to filter the blood, get rid of extra fluids, and cleanse the body of waste items if MAHA causes kidney disease.
Surgery
Surgery may be required in rare circumstances to remove blood clots or damaged tissue.
Close Monitoring
Patients with Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA) need to have their blood counts, organ functions, and therapy responses closely monitored. It will be required to schedule routine follow-up sessions and laboratory testing to monitor any problems and gauge the efficiency of the treatment.
The treatment of Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia is complex and often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving hematologists, nephrologists, and other specialists.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Microangiopathic Hemolytic Anemia (MAHA) is a rare but serious medical condition characterized by the destruction of red blood cells and the formation of blood clots within the small blood vessels. MAHA can have a variety of underlying causes, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and medications.
The diagnosis of MAHA involves a combination of laboratory tests, imaging studies, and a thorough medical history and physical examination. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the condition and may involve blood transfusions, plasma exchange, medications, dialysis, and surgery. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are necessary to manage symptoms and assess treatment effectiveness.
Video Credits: