Determination of hemolytic anemia through the study of (51)Cr red cell survival and splenic sequestration.

The use of (51)Cr-labeled red blood cells to determine erythrocyte survival in circulation is not a routine procedure. Data are acquired by frequent counting of small-volume blood samples to determine the rate of red cell survival over time. Results are entirely quantitative and can involve semilogarithmic graphing techniques. An accurate study can positively identify hemolytic anemia, a disorder characterized by premature destruction of erythrocytes. Additionally, anatomic sites of premature hemolysis will demonstrate a higher radioactive count than the background organ. This procedure review presents a dual survival and sequestration study positive for hemolytic anemia and hypersplenism in an 83-y-old man with systemic lupus erythematosus. (51)Cr red cell survival and splenic sequestration studies may be considered when clinical history and laboratory studies cannot establish a definitive diagnosis.