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[Secondary autoimmune hemolytic anemia caused by epidemic parotitis virus]
Velma Mulaosmanović1, Meliha Sakić, Merdina Ferhatović
1Pedijatrijska klinika KCU Sarajevo.
Unlabelled:
We report a case of mumps virus (VM) caused secondary autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). A 12-year-old boy was hospitalized at Paediatric Clinic of Sarajevo because of haemolytic anaemia followed by disturbed consciousness. Idiopathic hemolytic anemia was diagnosed on the basis of anamnesis, detailed clinical examination and laboratory analysis. The boy responded well to the therapy (corticosteroides, immunoglobulines, transfusions of red blood cells without buffy coat) with improvement of general condition and clinical aspect. Ninth day since the beginning of illness, firstly one than another parotide gland were enlarged, painful, followed by swallow problem and erythema of Stensen's duct. Epidemic parotitis were diagnosed on the basis of high amylasa in serum and urine.
Conclusion:
AIHA could be seen as primary disease. But, in paediatric population it is more often only one manifestation of underlying disease which we should search for.
Insights
Mumps virus infection can trigger secondary autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) in children. Prompt treatment improved the patient's condition, highlighting the need to investigate underlying causes for pediatric AIHA.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Hematology
- Viral Infections
- Immunology
Background:
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a condition where the immune system attacks red blood cells.
- While often idiopathic, AIHA can be secondary to various underlying conditions.
- Investigating potential triggers is crucial, especially in pediatric cases.
Observation:
- A 12-year-old boy presented with hemolytic anemia and altered consciousness.
- Initial diagnosis was idiopathic hemolytic anemia, responsive to corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, and transfusions.
- Later, symptoms of epidemic parotitis (mumps) emerged, confirmed by elevated serum and urine amylase levels.
Findings:
- The patient's autoimmune hemolytic anemia was determined to be secondary to mumps virus infection.
- Successful treatment involved corticosteroids, immunoglobulins, and supportive care.
- The parotitis diagnosis was established through clinical signs and laboratory markers.
Implications:
- This case underscores that AIHA in children may manifest as a symptom of an underlying viral illness.
- Early identification and management of the trigger, like mumps virus, are essential for effective treatment.
- Further research into the link between viral infections and secondary AIHA in pediatric populations is warranted.