What is a major characteristic of hemolytic anemia?

A major characteristic of hemolytic anemia is the destruction of red blood cells before their normal lifespan is over. In a healthy individual, red blood cells typically have a lifespan of about 120 days. In hemolytic anemia, various factors lead to the premature breakdown of these cells, resulting in a reduced count of red blood cells and subsequent anemia. This process can occur due to autoimmune reactions, inherited disorders, infections, or certain medications.

The other options describe conditions that are not primarily associated with hemolytic anemia. A genetic defect causing hemoglobin S relates specifically to sickle cell disease, a different type of anemia where abnormal hemoglobin leads to sickling of red blood cells. Excessive blood loss during menstruation refers to menorrhagia, which can lead to iron deficiency anemia rather than hemolytic anemia. Chronic use of NSAIDs can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, affecting blood volume and potentially causing anemia, but it doesn’t directly cause hemolysis of red blood cells. Therefore, the hallmark feature of hemolytic anemia is indeed the premature destruction of red blood cells.