Antibody mediated hemolytic anemia, also known as AIHA, is a type of anemia caused by the production of antibodies against the patient's own red blood cells. The antibodies attach to the red blood cells and cause them to break down prematurely. This results in a decreased number of red blood cells in the body, which leads to anemia. AIHA can be caused by a variety of conditions, including autoimmune disorders, infections, and medications.
Symptoms of AIHA
Common symptoms of antibody mediated hemolytic anemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, rapid heart rate, jaundice, and dark urine. In severe cases, the body may not be able to make enough red blood cells, leading to a dangerously low red blood cell count, or anemia.
Diagnosis of AIHA
AIHA is typically diagnosed with a combination of physical exams, laboratory tests, and imaging tests. Blood tests can help to determine the number of red blood cells and antibodies present in the body, as well as their type and size. Imaging tests such as ultrasounds or CT scans may be used to examine the spleen or liver for enlarged organs.
Treatment of AIHA
Treatment for AIHA depends on the underlying cause. Medications such as steroids or immunosuppressants may be necessary to reduce inflammation and stop the production of antibodies. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary to replace lost red blood cells. In severe cases, a splenectomy may be recommended to remove the spleen, which is responsible for destroying red blood cells.
