Hemolytic anemia after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI): A case report

Due to the use of antiplatelet and anticoagulation drugs in PCI patients, gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is often believed to be the main cause of postoperative bleeding events. Identifying the etiology of anemia in patients after PCI is crucial for targeted treatment in the later stage. Based on the symptoms of dark brown urine and the levels of RBC, HB, reticulocyte and unconjugated bilirubin (UCB), we finally diagnosed the patient with hemolytic anemia (HA), rather than the traditional consciousness of GIB. This is an uncommon case of hemolysis after PCI. Although the association between PCI and HA is very rare, PCI is now a commonly used treatment for patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Therefore, clinicians should recognize that in addition to GBI, HA may also occur after PCI. Early recognition of the cause of anemia and early treatment is one of the key steps to ensure the later life and health of PCI patients.