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Anemia with LDH-elevation in a patient with aortic valve replacement
A C Wagner1, R C Funck, J Heymanns
1Zentrum für Innere Medizin, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany.
Herz
|June 1, 1994
Summary
A patient with a history of aortic valve replacement developed hemolytic anemia due to mechanical issues with the prosthesis. Further evaluation was needed to assess the aortic valve and manage the anemia.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Hematology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- A 63-year-old patient with a history of aortic valve replacement (AVR) in 1986 presented for evaluation.
- The patient had a prior AVR, necessitating ongoing monitoring of the prosthetic valve function.
Observation:
- A family physician noted reduced hemoglobin levels (91 g/l) and increased serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).
- These laboratory findings suggested a potential hematological issue.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with mechanically induced hemolytic anemia.
- This diagnosis indicated that the prosthetic aortic valve was likely causing red blood cell destruction.
Implications:
- The findings highlight the potential for prosthetic heart valves to cause hemolytic anemia.
- Further investigation and evaluation of the aortic valve prosthesis are crucial for patient management.
- This case underscores the importance of considering mechanical hemolysis in patients with prosthetic valves and anemia.