Clinical patterns and hematological spectrum in autoimmune hemolytic anemia

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Immunology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) involves red blood cell destruction mediated by autoantibodies.
• AIHA is categorized into primary and secondary forms based on etiology.
• A positive direct antiglobulin test (DAT) is essential for diagnosing AIHA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the clinical characteristics and etiological factors of autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
• To differentiate between primary and secondary AIHA based on patient demographics and laboratory findings.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 175 patients diagnosed with AIHA via a positive DAT.
• Categorization of cases into primary AIHA and secondary AIHA.
• Review of clinical presentation, laboratory results, and associated conditions.

Main Results:

• AIHA demonstrated a female predilection (1:2.2 M:F ratio) with peak incidence in the third decade.
• Secondary AIHA (n=135) was more prevalent than primary AIHA (n=40).
• Primary AIHA cases frequently presented with severe anemia (65%) and hemolysis (48%), with 45% positive for both DAT and IAT. Connective tissue disorders were the most common cause of secondary AIHA (n=63).

Conclusions:

• AIHA exhibits a female predominance and often manifests with anemia.
• Secondary AIHA, particularly associated with connective tissue disorders, is more common than primary AIHA.
• Primary AIHA is characterized by severe anemia and pronounced hemolytic activity.