A pregnant patient, Lata is admitted for the workup of hemolytic anemia. She is giving the history of taking an antihypertensive drug after beginning of her pregnancy. The most likely cause would be:
## **Core Concept**
The question tests the understanding of drug-induced hemolytic anemia, particularly in the context of pregnancy and antihypertensive medication. The key concept here involves identifying which antihypertensive drugs are known to cause hemolytic anemia.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, , is likely correct because Methyldopa is a well-known antihypertensive drug that can cause hemolytic anemia, especially in pregnant women. This condition is a recognized side effect of Methyldopa, occurring due to the immune-mediated destruction of red blood cells.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** is incorrect because while it could potentially cause various side effects, it is less commonly associated with hemolytic anemia compared to Methyldopa.
- **Option B:** is incorrect as there is no commonly used antihypertensive drug by this name that is associated with hemolytic anemia.
- **Option C:** is incorrect because, although it can have several side effects, inducing hemolytic anemia is not commonly associated with it.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that Methyldopa-induced hemolytic anemia can occur in pregnant women, and it is essential to monitor patients on Methyldopa for signs of hemolysis, such as decreased hemoglobin levels and increased reticulocyte count.
## **Correct Answer:** . Methyldopa