Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Learning Center

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Welcome

Immune hemolytic anemia is a disorder characterized by anemia due to premature destruction of red blood cells by the immune system.

Basic Info

Symptoms
Fatigue; Pale or yellow skin color; Shortness of breath; Rapid heart rate; Dark urine; Enlarged spleen.
Causes
Immune hemolytic anemia occurs when antibodies form against the body's own red blood cells. The antibodies will destroy...
Tests
Positive direct or indirect Coombs' test; High bilirubin levels; High LDH (enzymes whose levels rise as a result of tis...
Treatments
Treatment with the steroid prednisone is the first therapy that is tried. If prednisone does not improve the condition,...
Drugs
  • cyclophosphamide
  • immune globulins
Risk Factors
  • Female Gender
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Complications
Death rarely occurs from severe anemia. Overwhelming infection may occur as a complication of treatment with steroids o...
Prevention
Screening for antibodies in donated blood and in the recipient may prevent hemolytic anemia related to blood transfusio...
Doctor Specialties
Call your health care provider if unexplained fatigue or chest pain occurs, or if signs of infection are present.

Basic Info

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