Hereditary Spherocytosis: Symptoms & Signs

Hereditary spherocytosis is a genetic disorder that results in red blood cells with an abnormal shape (a sphere).

Signs and symptoms of hereditary spherocytosis can include symptoms related to anemia (a low red blood cell count) such as

• shortness of breath,
• pale skin,
• fatigue,
• dizziness or lightheadedness,
• heart palpitations, and
• an increased heart rate.

Other associated signs and symptoms can include

• enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly),
• gallbladder problems and gallstones,
• pale stools,
• itchy skin, and
• yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice).

Cause of hereditary spherocytosis

Inherited genetic mutations typically cause the condition. The abnormal red blood cells are fragile and possess a short life span as compared to normal red blood cells.

Other hereditary spherocytosis symptoms and signs

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness
• Enlargement of the Spleen (Splenomegaly)
• Fatigue
• Gallbladder Problems and Gallstones
• Heart Palpitations
• Increased Heart Rate
• Itchy Skin
• Pale Skin
• Pale Stools
• Shortness of Breath
• Yellowing of the Skin and Whites of the Eyes (Jaundice)

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