Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Antibodies

Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia

Definition:

This disorder results from an abnormality of the immune system that destroys red blood cells prematurely. The cause is unknown.

Alternative Names:

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia; Anemia - idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia is an acquired disease that occurs when antibodies form against the person's own red blood cells. In the idiopathic form of this disease, the cause is unknown.

There are other types of immune hemolytic anemias where the cause may result from an underlying disease or medication. Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia accounts for one-half of all immune hemolytic anemias. The onset of the disease may be quite rapid and very serious.

Risk factors are not known.

Symptoms:

Signs and tests:

Positive direct Coombs' test
Indirect Coombs' test
Elevated bilirubin levels
Low serum haptoglobin
Hemoglobin in the urine
Elevated reticulocyte count
Low red blood cell count and low serum hemoglobin

Treatment:

The first therapy tried is usuallu treatment with prednisone. If prednisone does not improve the condition, a splenectomy (removal of the spleen) may be considered.

Immunosuppressive therapy is given if the person does not respond to prednisone and splenectomy. Imuran and Cytoxan have both been used.

Blood transfusions are given with caution, if indicated for severe anemia, because of the potential that blood may not be compatible and precipitate a reaction.

Expectations (prognosis):

Adults may have chronic, relapsing disease, but in children the anemia is usually short-lived.

Complications:

Infection (from treatment)
Severe anemia

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you notice symptoms of anemia.

Prevention:

There is no known prevention for idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia, because the cause is unknown.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.