Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Secondary to COVID-19 Vaccine: A Case Report

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is an acquired hemolysis caused by one's immune system targeting red blood cell surface antigens, resulting in a shortening of the normal red-cell lifespan of 120 days. In this case report, we present an unusual case of a middle-aged woman with no known autoimmune diseases. After ruling out all other possible etiologies, she was later diagnosed with AIHA about two months after receiving her first dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine (COVISHIELD). We discuss the possible underlying cause, the COVID-19 vaccine, for the precipitation of AIHA. The importance of identifying rare adverse events that could occur during mass vaccination is highlighted in this case. The patient was treated with oral steroids and received three blood transfusions. She was discharged after 21 days from the hospital and followed up after six months with no relapse.