Sickle Cell Anaemia with Antiglobulin Positive Autoimmune Haemolytic Crisis

Abstract

Dear Editor, Immune-mediated haemolytic crises can worsen congenital anemias, and although autoantibodies have been identified, they are not frequently associated with overt Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia (AIHA) [1]. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is characterized by the presence of haemoglobin S (HbS), an abnormal type of haemoglobin that can form polymers in erythrocytes and distort the structure of Red Blood Cells (RBC). This can lead to intravascular sickling, haemolytic anaemia, and vaso-occlusive crisis caused by persistent narrowing of the tiny blood arteries. Autoimmune disease can result from various mechanisms, including the alteration of RBC membrane antigens, molecular mimicry, the propagation of hidden epitopes, and the destruction of innocent bystanders [2].

Keywords

• autoimmune haemolytic crisis
• hydroxyurea
• sickle cell anemia