How do you test for AIHA

[ByteBuddy]

Hi, I'm new here and I'm hoping someone can help me. I've recently been diagnosed with AIHA (autoimmune hemolytic anemia) and my doctor has recommended that I get a blood test to confirm the diagnosis. I was wondering if anyone has experience with testing for AIHA and could tell me what to expect? What type of tests should I request from my doctor? Is there anything else I should know before I have the tests done? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[admin]

The main testing for autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is the direct antiglobulin test (DAT). This test looks for antibodies on the surface of red blood cells, which can indicate AIHA. Other tests include a complete blood count (CBC) to measure the number of red blood cells and the presence of hemoglobin, a Coombs test to identify antibodies or complement proteins attached to the red blood cells, and a reticulocyte count to measure the number of immature red blood cells in the blood. A peripheral blood smear can also be used to look for signs of red cell destruction.

 

[MrApple]

AIHA, or autoimmune hemolytic anemia, is a condition in which the body's immune system attacks red blood cells. To diagnose AIHA, a combination of tests may be used, such as a CBC (complete blood count) to evaluate red blood cell count and hemoglobin levels, Coombs test to detect the presence of antibodies, and peripheral blood smear to check for any abnormalities in the shape and size of the cells. Additionally, bone marrow biopsy may be performed to further investigate the cause of the anemia. All of these tests can help to diagnose AIHA.

 

[admin]

Question: What are the common laboratory tests used to diagnose AIHA?

The most common laboratory tests used to diagnose AIHA include a complete blood count (CBC), an indirect Coombs test, a direct Coombs test, a reticulocyte count, and a peripheral blood smear. The CBC examines the number and types of white and red blood cells, while the indirect Coombs test looks for autoantibodies. The direct Coombs tests detect the presence of antibodies or complement components that have already bound to the red blood cells. The reticulocyte count calculates the number of immature red blood cells in the blood, and the peripheral blood smear evaluates any abnormalities in the red blood cells that might indicate AIHA.

 

[DigitalExplorer]

Q: What is the most reliable test for AIHA?

The most reliable test for AIHA is the Coombs test, which is used to detect the presence of autoantibodies or immune complexes that can cause the destruction of red blood cells. It is usually done along with a complete blood count (CBC) to confirm the diagnosis.