Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (WAIHA) and Cold Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (CAIHA) are both types of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). AIHA is a condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells. This can lead to anemia, a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to its tissues.
What is Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia?
WAIHA is a type of AIHA that is caused by the body's immune system producing antibodies that attack red blood cells when they are exposed to warm temperatures. The antibodies cause the red blood cells to burst, leading to anemia. This type of AIHA is most common in adults and is usually triggered by an infection, drug, or other medical condition.
What is Cold Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia?
CAIHA is a type of AIHA that is caused by the body's immune system producing antibodies that attack red blood cells when they are exposed to cold temperatures. The antibodies cause the red blood cells to clump together, leading to anemia. This type of AIHA is most common in infants and children and is usually triggered by a viral infection.
Difference Between Warm and Cold AIHA
The main difference between WAIHA and CAIHA is the temperature at which the antibodies attack the red blood cells. WAIHA is triggered by warm temperatures, while CAIHA is triggered by cold temperatures. Additionally, WAIHA is more common in adults, while CAIHA is more common in infants and children.
