Extramedullary Hematopoiesis with Atypical Localization in Patients with Hemolytic Anemia

Abstract

Purpose:This study aimed to determine the atypical localizations of extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH) in patients with hemolytic anemia, most of whom were diagnosed with hemoglobinopathy and are followed in our region. Materials and Methods: The files and imaging examinations of hemolytic anemia patients in the Pediatric Hematology Clinic of our hospital between 01.07.2020-28.02.2022 were retrospectively scannedPatients who were imaged for complaints or for other reasons were evaluated for lesions. Some of the patients were over the age of 18 and the cases were mostly detected at this age. Results: A total of 247 patients were scanned in the study, and EMH was detected in atypical localization in 5 patients as a result of imaging studies, firstly with lung films and then with more advanced methods (such as chest computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging) when necessary. Unilateral or bilateral thoracic paraspinal EMH was detected in the patients. One patient had an additional right kidney EMH focus. Conclusion: Clinical and radiological evaluation of the probability of a mass lesion detected in patients with hemolytic anemia to be EMH at atypical localization will protect the patient from unnecessary diagnostic and interventional procedures. During the regular follow-up and treatment of the patients, the presence of these lesions should also be predicted.

Keywords

• anemia
• hemoglobinopathy
• hematopoiesis
• imaging