spherocytic anemia /sfir′əsit″ik/ , autosomal-dominant hemolytic anemia characterized by hemolytic anemia caused by the presence of spherical red blood cells. The cells are fragile and tend to hemolyze in the oxygen-poor peripheral circulatory system. Episodic crises of abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, and splenomegaly occur. Because repeated transfusions are often needed to treat the anemia, hemochromatosis may develop. Splenectomy may then be necessary. Compare congenital nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia. See also elliptocytosis.
