Acquired Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA)

Red cell autoantibodies cause increased red cell lysis, resulting in AIHA. Depending on whether the antibody adheres to the red cells better at body temperature (37°C) or lower temperatures, it is categorized into “warm” and “cold” types. IgG antibodies predominate in warm AIHA, but IgM antibodies are typically present in cold AIHA.

Diagnosis :

• Fatigue, pallor, jaundice
• Splenomegaly
• Persistent anemia and reticulocytosis
• Positive Coombs test

Treatment:

• Corticosteroids, for example, prednisolone 1 mg/kg per day
• Splenectomy if there is no remission
• Medications such as cyclophosphamide and azathioprine  may be used