What is Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia?
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA) is a type of anemia that occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys red blood cells. This condition is classified as an autoimmune disease, where the body’s defense mechanism malfunction leads to the production of antibodies against its own blood cells.
Causes
AIHA can develop due to various factors, including infections, certain medications, and underlying health issues like lymphoma or leukemia. The exact cause may not always be identified, making diagnosis challenging.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of AIHA include fatigue, weakness, pallor, shortness of breath, and an increased heart rate. Patients may also experience jaundice, dark urine, and an enlarged spleen as the body attempts to compensate for the loss of red blood cells.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests that evaluate hemoglobin levels, reticulocyte counts, and the presence of antibodies against red blood cells. A direct Coombs test is a critical diagnostic tool for confirming AIHA.
Treatment
Treatment for AIHA may involve corticosteroids to reduce immune response, immunosuppressants, and, in severe cases, blood transfusions or splenectomy to remove the spleen, which is responsible for filtering blood.
Conclusion
AIHA is a serious chronic condition that requires timely diagnosis and appropriate management to improve the quality of life for affected individuals.