Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, specifically during pregnancy, is an uncommon hematological disorder, which causes premature destruction of red blood cells. While it may be idiopathic, this disorder may also be secondary to an underlying condition. Whatever its etiology, this disease is associated with high maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidity, which is due to the transplacental passage of immunoglobulins G (IgG). This highlights the usefulness of diagnosing and managing this pathology, which is a real challenge, given the lack of codified recommendations published in the literature.
What is already known about the topic?
Apart from the case of pregnancy, guidelines on the management of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) are clear and consistent. While the major adverse obstetrical consequences of AIHA are now well-established, the literature on AIHA during pregnancy is still scarce, containing very little data, specifically with respect to the recommended obstetrical treatment and follow-up.
What does this article bring up for us?
The article presents a case report concerning a rare etiology of warm-antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia during pregnancy. The report briefly summarizes the pathology of this condition and its potential consequences on the obstetrical outcomes, as well as the management of this condition during pregnancy.
Key Words
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia, warm antibody, pregnancy, seroconversion for cytomegalovirus