Is autoimmune hemolytic anemia intrinsic or extrinsic

strawberry

Active member
Hi everyone,

I'm new here and I'm hoping to get some help. I'm trying to understand the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and I'm having some difficulty. Could someone please explain to me the difference between these two types of anemia and how they relate to one another? Any information on the subject would be greatly appreciated.
 

Guide

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: Intrinsic or Extrinsic?

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by the destruction of red blood cells (RBCs) by the body's own immune system. The condition can be either intrinsic or extrinsic, and is usually diagnosed through a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. In this article, we will discuss the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic AIHA, how it is diagnosed, and available treatments.

Intrinsic AIHA is caused by an immune reaction to the body's own red blood cells. The immune system mistakenly identifies the RBCs as foreign invaders and launches an attack against them, leading to their destruction. This type of AIHA is often caused by an underlying medical condition, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, or by a genetic mutation.

Extrinsic AIHA is caused by an immune reaction to a foreign substance, such as a medication, infection, or parasite. In this case, the immune system mistakenly identifies the foreign substance as a threat and launches an attack against it. This type of AIHA is often caused by exposure to certain medications, such as penicillin, or by an infection, such as hepatitis C.

AIHA is usually diagnosed through a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Common symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, and shortness of breath. Laboratory tests such as a complete blood count and a direct antiglobulin test (DAT) can help confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for AIHA depends on the type and severity of the condition. Intrinsic AIHA is often treated with immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids or cyclophosphamide. Extrinsic AIHA may be treated with medications that suppress the immune system or remove the offending agent, such as antibiotics or antimalarial medications. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be required to replace destroyed red blood cells.

In conclusion, autoimmune hemolytic anemia can be either intrinsic or extrinsic, depending on the cause. It is usually diagnosed through a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition, and may involve medications, blood transfusions, or other therapies.
 

MrApple

Active member
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is an extrinsic disorder. It is caused by antibodies that attack an individual’s own red blood cells, leading to premature destruction and removal of them from the bloodstream. It can occur as a result of either an infection or a reaction to certain medications. It can also be caused by other autoimmune conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren's syndrome. Treatment for autoimmune hemolytic anemia typically consists of the use of corticosteroids, antimalarial drugs, or other immunosuppressants.
 

ConceptCrafter

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is an acquired disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys one's own red blood cells. It is considered an intrinsic disorder, as it is caused by a malfunction of the body's own immune system. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia can be triggered by a variety of factors, including certain medications, infections, and autoimmune diseases. It is also associated with certain genetic conditions, such as thalassemia and certain forms of leukemia. Treatment for autoimmune hemolytic anemia includes immunosuppression, medications to stimulate red blood cells production, and supportive care.
 

strawberry

Active member
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an immune-mediated disease, meaning it is an intrinsic disorder of the immune system. The body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own red blood cells, leading to their premature destruction and anemia. AIHA can be further classified into warm-reacting and cold-reacting AIHA, depending on the temperature at which the red blood cells are destroyed. Treatment for AIHA typically involves corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and/or plasma exchange.
 
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