Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

Which condition is characterized by the destruction of red blood cells?

1. Hemolytic anaemia

2. Ineffective erythropoiesis

3. Iron deficiency anaemia

4. Aplastic anemia

The correct answer is: Hemolytic anaemia

Hemolytic anemia is characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, leading to a decrease in their number in the bloodstream. This condition can result from various factors, including autoimmune diseases, infections, certain medications, and hereditary conditions, which promote the premature breakdown of red blood cells. When red blood cells are destroyed more rapidly than they can be produced, this imbalance leads to anemia, which presents with symptoms such as fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath. Ineffective erythropoiesis refers to a situation where red blood cells are produced but not properly formed or mature. This condition does not primarily involve the destruction of red blood cells but rather an issue with their production, leading to an inadequate supply of healthy red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia involves a deficiency of iron, crucial for producing hemoglobin, which results in the inadequate production of red blood cells. This condition does not typically involve red blood cell destruction but rather impaired creation. Aplastic anemia is characterized by the failure of the bone marrow to produce sufficient blood cells, including red blood cells. The primary issue here is insufficient production rather than destruction, distinguishing it from hemolytic anemia. Overall, hemolytic anemia specifically pertains to the destruction of red blood cells, which is