AIHA stands for Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. It is a medical condition characterized by the destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis) by the body's own immune system. Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia occurs when the immune system mistakenly recognizes the body's own red blood cells as foreign and launches an attack against them.
The immune system plays a crucial role in defending the body against harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins. However, in AIHA, the immune system produces antibodies that bind to the surface of red blood cells, marking them for destruction. This can lead to anemia, as the body's ability to transport oxygen to tissues and organs is impaired.
AIHA can be classified into two main types: warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia and cold agglutinin disease. Warm AIHA is the more common form and is characterized by the presence of antibodies that target red blood cells at body temperature. Cold agglutinin disease, on the other hand, occurs when the immune system attacks red blood cells at lower temperatures, such as in the hands and feet.
Symptoms of AIHA may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and an enlarged spleen. Treatment options for AIHA may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. They may include immune-suppressing medications, blood transfusions, and in some cases, surgical removal of the spleen. AIHA can be a chronic condition requiring long-term management and monitoring of red blood cell counts.
