Extramedullary Hematopoiesis with Atypical Localization in Patients with Hemolytic Anemia

Abstract

Purpose: In this study, it was 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 patients with hemolytic anemia who were followed up in the Pediatric Hematology Clinic of our hospital between 01.07.2020-28.02.2022 were retrospectively scanned. Patients who had lesions by imaging due to their complaints or other reasons were evaluated. Some of the patients were over the age of 18 and the cases were mostly detected at this age. Patients with congenital anemia can be followed in the pediatric hematology department 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 tomography, magnetic resonance) when necessary. Unilateral or bilateral thoracic paraspinal EMH was detected in the patients. One patient had an additional right kidney EMH focus.
 Conclusion: Evaluation of the possibility of EMH in atypical localization of the mass lesion detected in patients with hemolytic anemia by the clinician and radiologist 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.