Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia is a form of hemolytic anemia (loss of red blood cells through destruction) caused by factors in the small blood vessels. It is identified by the finding of anaemia and schistocytes ("bite cells") on microscopy of the blood film.
The most important causes are:
- Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)
- Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS)
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)