Anemia

Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria

When red blood cells decay prematurely, a patient may have paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. The rare condition can be acquired at any age. Researchers believe that the early death of red blood cells is related to the abnormal development of certain molecules on the cell's surface. Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria cause red or brown urine. The condition may be related to aplastic anemia and sometimes progresses to acute myelogenous leukemia.

Treatment

Several kinds of medications can be used to treat paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Physicians at Mayo Clinic may consider using steroids to slow or stop the destruction of red blood cells. Patients may also need medication to prevent blood clot formation.

Bone Marrow Transplant

In some cases of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, a bone marrow transplant may be considered. The risks for this procedure are very high, but in some cases bone marrow transplant will cure the condition. Experienced physicians at Mayo Clinic work with the patient to carefully weigh the options, risks and benefits. Physicians use chemotherapy or radiation to destroy the patient's bone marrow before matched bone marrow from a donor is transplanted. Bone marrow transplant may require a lengthy stay at a Mayo Clinic hospital. Read more about bone marrow transplant.