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Alternative Names Return to top
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia; Anemia - idiopathic autoimmune hemolyticDefinition Return to top
Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a drop in the number of red blood cells due to a problem with the body's defense (immune) system.
Causes Return to top
Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia is an acquired disease that occurs when antibodies form against a person's own red blood cells. In the idiopathic form of this disease, the cause is unknown.
There are other types of immune hemolytic anemias where the cause may result from an underlying disease or medication. Idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia accounts for one-half of all immune hemolytic anemias. The onset of the disease may be quite rapid and very serious.
Risk factors are not known.
Symptoms Return to top
Exams and Tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
The first therapy tried is usually treatment with prednisone. If prednisone does not improve the condition, a splenectomy (removal of the spleen) may be considered.
Immunosuppressive therapy is given if the person does not respond to prednisone and splenectomy. Imuran and Cytoxan have both been used.
Blood transfusions are given with caution, if indicated for severe anemia, because of the potential that blood may not be compatible and may bring on a reaction.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Adults may have chronic, relapsing disease, but in children the anemia is usually short-lived.
Possible Complications Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if you notice symptoms of anemia.
Prevention Return to top
There is no known prevention for idiopathic autoimmune hemolytic anemia, because the cause is unknown.
Update Date: 2/6/2007 Updated by: William Matsui, MD, Assistant Professor of Oncology, Division of Hematologic Malignancies, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |