Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA)

occurs when antibodies directed against the person's own Red Blood Cell (RBCs)

 RBCs burst (lyse), insufficient plasma concentration.

The lifetime of the RBCs is reduced tojust a few days.(normal 100 to 120).

AIHA affecting one to three people per 100,000 per year. 

AIHA caused by a number of different classes of antibody, with IgG and IgM antibodies.

Warm Antibody Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia:
AIHA involving IgG is generally characterized by phagocytosis of RBCs.
IgG attaches itself to RBC at 37 C.
Treatment:Corticosteroids.,Splenectomy.
Diagnosis :Positive direct Coombs test.

Cold Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia:

AIHA involving IgM is characterized by complement mediated lysis of RBCs.
IgM binds to RBC at cold temperature.
Treatment: Avoid cold triggers, Rituximab.





last night, I read about this disease in one article, and I really wanted to know what the difference is between AIHA and fetal anemia?