Spur cell anemia (acanthocytosis) complicating idiopathic hemochromatosis.
A 65-year-old male developed a rapidly progressive disease characterized by severe hemolysis, with spur cells (acanthocytes) and liver disease. Autopsy findings were consistent with a diagnosis of idiopathic hemochromatosis. Investigation of the patient's family uncovered four out of five first degree relatives with significantly raised serum ferritin levels. A sister had biopsy proven hemochromatosis. Spur cell anemia is a recognized, though rare, complication of alcoholic liver disease and indeed the patient had a regular alcohol intake of up to 50 g daily. Although the alcohol intake could have contributed to the formation of spur cells, the possible association with hemochromatosis should be considered. A diagnosis of hemochromatosis has important implications for family members.
Hitchins
R
R
Department of Clinical Haematology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane.
Naughton
L
L
Kerlin
P
P
Cobcroft
R
R
D000050:Acanthocytes / Q000473:pathology*; D000368:Aged; D000743:Anemia, Hemolytic / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000235:genetics; D004913:Erythrocytes, Abnormal / Q000473:pathology*; D005293:Ferritins / Q000097:blood; D006432:Hemochromatosis / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000235:genetics; D006801:Humans; D008108:Liver Diseases, Alcoholic / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male
D005293:Ferritins