Hemolytic Anemia Accelerated by Babesia spp. Infection in Splenectomized Patient

Bryan Danilchuk; Susan J. Leclair

doi:10.29074/ascls.25.4.194

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Bryan Danilchuk, BS, MLS (ASCP)^CM⇑
1. University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, MA
Susan J. Leclair, Ph.D.
1. Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, MA

Address for Correspondence: Bryan Danilchuk, BS, MLS (ASCP)^CM, University of Massachusetts, 285 Old Westport Road, Dartmouth, MA, 02747, 339-927-1224, bdanilchuk{at}gmail.com

Abstract

A 50-year-old patient presented with severe fatigue, fevers, unexplained weight loss, and night sweats of two-week duration. Within two days, an episode of intravascular hemolysis was noted. Relevant medical history supported a possible diagnosis of Babesia spp. Molecular testing revealed Babesia DNA although the peripheral blood smear did not demonstrate any classic parasite forms. Treatment for Babesia was begun and the patient improved.

ABBREVIATIONS

ALP - alkaline phosphatase, AST - aspartate aminotransferase, CLL - chronic lymphocytic leukemia, HCT – hematocrit, HGB – hemoglobin, LD - lactate dehydrogenase, NRBC - nucleated red blood cell, PCR - polymerase chain reaction, PLT – platelet, PRBCs -packed red blood cells, RBC - red blood cell, RDW -red blood cell distribution width, WBC - white blood cell, Retic, - reticulocyte, Spp. – Species, Tot Bili - total bilirubin, Dir Bili - direct bilirubin