Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Children: Clinical Profile and Outcome

Hemolytic Anemia in Children

Abstract

Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA) is an idiopathic condition marked by red blood cell destruction. Objective: To compare the clinical features, laboratory parameters, treatment approaches, and responses between idiopathic and secondary AIHA in pediatric patients, with the aim of identifying key distinctions that can inform the development of tailored diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Methods: This was cross sectional study and conducted for six months from April 2024 to September 2024 at Department of pediatrics at Khairpur medical college khairpur mirs. Data were collected on demographics, presenting symptoms, laboratory findings (hemoglobin, bilirubin, LDH levels), antibody profiles, and treatment outcomes. SPSS 23 was used for statistical analysis to compare treatment responses and clinical characteristics between idiopathic and secondary AIHA patients. Chi-square tests were used for categorical variables and t-tests for continuous variables. Results: The mean age of participants was 6.8 years, with 58% male. Patients with idiopathic AIHA had higher hemoglobin levels (7.5 g/dL versus 6.9 g/dL for secondary, p=0.03) and lower bilirubin (3.6 mg/dL versus 4.1 mg/dL, p=0.02). Treatment varied significantly: 89% of idiopathic patients received steroids compared to 86% of secondary patients. Secondary patients were more likely to receive IVIG (51% versus 34%, p=0.04) and rituximab (37% versus 11%, p<0.01). Complete response rates were higher in idiopathic AIHA (83% versus 63%, p=0.01). Conclusions: Significant differences exist in the clinical presentation and treatment responses of idiopathic versus secondary AIHA. Tailored treatment strategies on AIHA type are essential for improving patient outcomes, warranting further research into these distinctions and new therapies.