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Alternative names Return to top
Elliptocytosis - hereditaryDefinition Return to top
Hereditary elliptocytosis is an inherited disorder in which the red blood cells are elliptical in shape.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Elliptocytosis is inherited, usually as an autosomal dominant trait, affecting approximately 1 in every 4,000 people. In mild cases, fewer than 15% of red blood cells are elliptical. Elliptocytosis is frequently harmless, although some people may experience hemolytic crises where the red blood cells rupture, releasing their hemoglobin. Affected individuals can develop anemia, jaundice, and gallstones.Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
An examination by your health care provider may occasionally show an enlarged spleen.Treatment Return to top
There is no treatment needed for the disorder unless there are hemolytic crises. Surgical removal of the spleen may decrease red blood cell rupture.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The majority of individuals with hereditary elliptocytosis have no problems, and they are unaware of their condition.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if prolonged jaundice occurs, or if you develop symptoms of anemia or gallstones.Prevention Return to top
Genetic counseling may be appropriate for prospective parents. However, the majority of individuals with hereditary elliptocytosis are unaware of any problems. Update Date: 7/31/2003 Updated by: Corey Cutler, M.D., M.P.H., F.R.C.P.C., Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute; Instructor of Medicine, Harvard University, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |