Hyperhaemolysis Syndrome: A Review of Cases

Abstract

Hyperhaemolysis is characterized by a haemolytic transfusion reaction that leads to life-threatening anaemia. It is usually suspected when there is a drop in haemoglobin level at least 24 hours after receiving allogeneic red cell transfusion. Decreasing haematocrit level, failure to respond to repeated RBC transfusions, markedly elevated LDH, absent haptoglobin, and gross haemoglobinuria are all suggestive of a haemolytic process. The aim of this review is to summarize and evaluate the cases from published literature to determine the features, management and outcome of reported cases of hyperhaemolysis syndrome.