Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia vs. Acquired Hemolytic Anemia
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and acquired hemolytic anemia (AHA) are two types of anemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells. Both types of anemia can be severe and life-threatening, but they have distinct differences.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system mistakenly recognizes red blood cells as foreign and destroys them. This results in anemia caused by a lack of red blood cells. AIHA can be either primary or secondary, depending on the underlying cause. Primary AIHA is caused by a defect in the mechanism that normally prevents the immune system from attacking its own cells. Secondary AIHA is caused by an underlying condition, such as infection, medication, or cancer.
Acquired Hemolytic Anemia
Acquired hemolytic anemia is an anemia caused by the destruction of red blood cells by a variety of external factors. These include drugs, toxins, bacterial infections, and mechanical trauma. AHA is usually not an autoimmune disorder, although it can be caused by certain autoimmune conditions.
The treatment for both AIHA and AHA is similar and typically involves treating the underlying cause and providing supportive care. If the underlying cause can be identified and treated, the anemia may resolve completely. In some cases, medications or transfusions may be necessary to maintain red blood cell levels.
