Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the red blood cells. The body's immune system attacks and destroys its own red blood cells, leading to anemia. To diagnose AIHA, doctors typically test a patient's blood for antibodies that are attacking the red blood cells.
Testing for Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Antibodies
The most common test used to detect AIHA antibodies is an indirect antiglobulin test (IAT). This test detects the presence of antibodies on the surface of the red blood cells. The test involves taking a sample of the patient's blood, mixing it with antibodies, and then looking for a reaction. If the antibodies attach to the red blood cells, it is a positive result.
Other tests used to diagnose AIHA antibodies include direct antiglobulin test (DAT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and complement fixation test (CFT). DAT is a more sensitive test than IAT, and it can detect antibodies that are not detected by IAT. ELISA is a sensitive test that can detect a wide range of antibodies, including those that are not detected by IAT or DAT. CFT is a less sensitive test, but it can detect antibodies that are not detected by IAT or DAT.
Treatment of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
The goal of treatment for AIHA is to reduce the destruction of red blood cells and to control the symptoms of anemia. Treatment options include medications, such as corticosteroids, and treatments such as plasmapheresis, which removes antibodies from the blood. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary. In rare cases, a stem cell transplant may be recommended.