Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys red blood cells, leading to anemia. This results in symptoms like fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath.
Coombs test is commonly used to diagnose AIHA by detecting antibodies that bind to red blood cells.
Warm antibody AIHA involves IgG antibodies and occurs at body temperature, while cold antibody AIHA involves IgM antibodies and occurs at lower temperatures.
Treatment options include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and sometimes splenectomy.
AIHA can be idiopathic or secondary to other conditions such as lupus or certain infections.
Agglutination assays play a crucial role in identifying the presence of autoantibodies involved in AIHA.
Related terms
Coombs Test: A laboratory test used to detect antibodies that act against the surface of red blood cells.
Agglutination Assay: A method used to detect the presence and concentration of specific antigens or antibodies in a sample.
Anemia: A condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to fatigue and weakness.