Cold agglutinin is a type of immunoglobulin (IgM) produced by the body’s immune system. It is most commonly found in people with certain types of autoimmune disorders and can lead to a range of symptoms including chest pain, fatigue, and cold-induced hemolytic anemia. The survival rate for cold agglutinin is not entirely clear. Some studies suggest that patients with cold agglutinin have a high mortality rate, while others suggest that the majority of patients survive with proper treatment.
Mortality Rates
One study from 2019 found that the overall mortality rate for cold agglutinin was 26.3%. The study found that the mortality rate was higher in older patients (31.1%) than in younger patients (14.4%). The mortality rate was also higher in those with higher levels of cold agglutinin (30.4%) than those with lower levels (13.5%).
Treatment Options
The primary treatment for cold agglutinin is a course of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy, which can reduce the symptoms of the disorder and may even lead to a remission of the condition. Other treatments may include corticosteroids, plasma exchange, and rituximab.
Prognosis
The prognosis for patients with cold agglutinin is usually good, especially if the patient receives timely and appropriate treatment. With treatment, patients may experience a complete remission of their symptoms and may even go into prolonged remission. However, without treatment, the condition can be life-threatening.
