[Spur-cell anemia in alcoholic liver cirrhosis]

Spur-cell anaemia is a severe haemolytic disorder which may occur in patients with alcoholic liver cirrhosis. Characteristics are the bizarre shape of erythrocytes and the elevated cholesterol content in the membrane of the erythrocyte. The pathophysiology and possibilities for treatment are discussed with reference to a personal case. The patient described was treated with a cholesterol synthesis inhibitor, but no effect on the transfusion demand was noted. Splenectomy appears to be the best treatment. If splenectomy is not an option, frequent transfusions are the only therapy.