[Abnormal cation transport in erythrocyte membranes during congenital hemolytic anemia (author's transl)].

In this paper we review our knowledge on: 1. The physiological mechanisms of constant low Na+, high K+ concentration in human red blood cells (cation content, cation movements through the erythrocyte membrane, membrane ATPases). 2. The pathologic findings observed in congenital hemolytic anemia. These alterations may explain hyperhemolysis in numerous diseases. In no case a primary genetically transmitted abnormal erythrocyte membrane protein can be formely demonstrated.