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Hemolytic anemia is a condition of an inadequate number of circulating red blood cells ( anemia ) caused by premature destruction of red blood cells. There are a number of specific types of hemolytic anemia, which are described individually.
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Red blood cells (erythrocytes) transport oxygen and carbon dioxide in the bloodstream, maintain a normal acid-base balance, and determine how thick or thin the blood is. Hemolytic anemia refers to the premature, increased destruction of erythrocytes.
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Red blood cells have a normal life span of approximately 90-120 days, at which time the old cells are destroyed and replaced by the body ' s natural processes. Hemolytic anemia is a disorder in which the red blood cells are destroyed prematurely.
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