A Unique Triad: Ulcerative Colitis, Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, and Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Immunology

Background:

• Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
• Extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) are common in UC patients.
• Autoimmune disorders share common immunological pathways.

Observation:

• An 18-year-old male presented with symptoms requiring hospitalization.
• The patient was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.
• Concurrently, autoimmune hemolytic anemia and primary sclerosing cholangitis were diagnosed.

Findings:

• The patient exhibited a rare triad of ulcerative colitis, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and primary sclerosing cholangitis.
• This co-occurrence suggests shared underlying immunological mechanisms.
• The combination provides insights into the pathogenesis of these distinct autoimmune diseases.

Implications:

• Understanding this triad can improve diagnostic approaches for complex autoimmune presentations.
• Further research into shared immunological factors may reveal novel therapeutic targets.
• This case underscores the importance of considering systemic autoimmune involvement in inflammatory bowel disease.