What is microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) and how does it lead to the appearance of schistocytes or "helmet cells") ?
a. Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) is a condition where red blood cells are physically damaged as they pass through small blood vessels, leading to their destruction.
b. The presence of schistocytes or "helmet cells" is a result of the damaged red blood cells being sheared or fragmented as they pass through these constricted vessels.
c. MAHA can be caused by conditions such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and malignant hypertension.
d. The appearance of schistocytes or "helmet cells" is characteristic of MAHA and can be observed under microscopy when examining a blood smear.