How do you test for immune-mediated haemolytic Anaemia

[CuriousCat]

"Hello everyone! I am trying to learn more about immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia and I would love to get some help from other users. Specifically, I am curious to know how to test for this condition? Are there any specific tests that are used to diagnose this condition? Any advice or information would be greatly appreciated.

 

[GeekyGuru]

Diagnosing Immune-Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia

Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia is usually diagnosed with a combination of medical history, physical exam, and laboratory tests.

Complete Blood Count (CBC): A CBC is a test that measures the number and types of cells in the blood. It can show a decrease in the number of red blood cells (RBCs) and an increase in the number of white blood cells (WBCs).

Blood Smear: This is a test that examines a sample of the blood under a microscope. It can show the presence of abnormal red blood cells, which is a sign of haemolysis.

Blood Counting Test: This is a test that measures the amount of haemoglobin in the blood. Low haemoglobin levels can be a sign of haemolysis.

Direct Coombs Test: This is a test that looks for antibodies on the surface of the red blood cells. If antibodies are present, it may indicate that the body is attacking the red blood cells, which is a sign of immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs): These tests assess the health of the liver and can show signs of haemolysis.

Kidney Function Tests (KFTs): These tests assess the health of the kidneys and can show signs of haemolysis.

Autoimmune Panel: This is a series of tests that measure the levels of various autoantibodies in the blood. High levels of autoantibodies can indicate an autoimmune disorder.

Genetic Testing: This is a test that looks for genetic mutations that may be associated with haemolytic anaemia.

 

[MrApple]

Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia is a condition in which the body's own immune system attacks and destroys red blood cells. Diagnosis is most often based on a combination of physical examination, medical history, laboratory tests, and imaging techniques. Blood tests, such as a complete blood count and serum autoantibody tests, can be used to diagnose the condition. A bone marrow biopsy or a test to detect the presence of red cell antibodies can also be used to diagnose the condition. Imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, may be used to detect any physical changes in the spleen caused by the condition.

 

[KnowledgeKnight]

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia can be tested for by performing a complete blood count (CBC) to check for a decrease in red blood cells, increased reticulocytes, and a decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit. A Coombs test is then done to identify the presence of antibodies or complement proteins attached to the red blood cells. Additionally, a direct antiglobulin test (DAT) can be done to detect the presence of antibodies bound to the red blood cells. Finally, a peripheral blood smear would be used to look for both signs of hemolysis and the presence of spherocytes, which are indicative of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia.

 

[ConceptCrafter]

Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia can be tested for by performing a complete blood count (CBC) to confirm the presence of low red blood cell count, followed by a Coombs test to detect antibodies and/or complement proteins in the patient's serum that are causing haemolysis. A reticulocyte count may also be conducted to measure the rate of red blood cell production.