Autoinmunohemolítica Anemia: características, causas y tratamiento

Study Notes

Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA)

Definition

A type of hemolytic anemia where the body's immune system produces antibodies that attack and destroy its own red blood cells

Types of AIHA

Warm AIHA: most common type, accounting for 80-90% of cases
- Antibodies react with red blood cells at body temperature (warm)
- Often associated with underlying diseases such as lymphoma, leukemia, or autoimmune disorders
Cold AIHA: less common type, accounting for 10-20% of cases
- Antibodies react with red blood cells at cold temperatures (<30°C)
- Often associated with viral infections, lymphoma, or Waldenström's macroglobulinemia
Mixed AIHA: rare type, with both warm and cold antibodies present

Causes and Risk Factors

Underlying diseases: lymphoma, leukemia, autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), and infections (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis)
Drugs: certain medications, such as methyldopa, can trigger AIHA
Genetic predisposition: family history of autoimmune disorders

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Pale skin
- Weakness
- Shortness of breath
- Jaundice
- Dark urine
Diagnosis:
- Laboratory tests: complete blood count (CBC), reticulocyte count, and direct antiglobulin test (DAT)
- Bone marrow biopsy may be necessary to rule out other conditions

Treatment and Management

Corticosteroids: first-line therapy to reduce antibody production and suppress immune system
Rituximab: monoclonal antibody that targets B cells, which produce antibodies
Immunosuppressive therapy: may be used in severe cases or when corticosteroids are ineffective
Blood transfusions: may be necessary to manage anemia
Splenectomy: surgical removal of the spleen may be considered in some cases

Description

Aprende sobre la anemia hemolítica autoinmune, sus tipos, causas y factores de riesgo, síntomas, diagnóstico y tratamiento. Esta enfermedad ocurre cuando el sistema inmunológico del cuerpo ataca y destruye sus propias células rojas.