Hemolytic anemia may be a sort of anemia thanks to hemolysis, the abnormal breakdown of red blood cells (RBCs), either within the blood vessels (intravascular hemolysis) or elsewhere within the physical body (extravascular). This most ordinarily occurs within the spleen but can also occur within the RES or mechanically (prosthetic valve damage). Hemolytic anemia accounts for five of all existing anemias. It has numerous possible consequences, starting from general symptoms to life-threatening systemic effects. The general classification of haemolytic anaemia is either intrinsic or extrinsic. Treatment depends on the sort and explanation for the haemolytic anaemia.

Symptoms of haemolytic anaemia are almost like other sorts of anemia (fatigue and shortness of breath), but additionally, the breakdown of red cells results in jaundice and increases the risk of particular long-term complications, like gallstones and pulmonary hypertension.