Microangiopathic hemolytic anemias (MAHA) in cancer. A case report and review.

Abstract

Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia in cancer, MAHA, a rare complication seen in connection with malignancies, exists in two forms. One form is associated with a disseminated disease and the other with chemotherapy, especially use of mitomycin-C in patients with limited disease or in patients in clinical remission. Both forms give rise to a severe, hemolytic anemia and the latter form also to renal insufficiency. MAHA is a life-threatening condition with poor prognosis unless it is identified early and treated. The two forms of MAHA are reviewed below and a case report is included.