National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia

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What causes autoimmune hemolytic anemia? Is it genetic? Does it usually lead to death?

The following information may help to address your question:


What causes autoimmune hemolytic anemia?

In about half of cases, the cause of autoimmune hemolytic anemia cannot be determined (idiopathic or primary). This condition can also be caused by or occur with another disorder (secondary) or rarely, occur following the use of certain drugs (such as penicillin) or after a person has a blood and marrow stem cell transplant.[1][2][3] Secondary causes of autoimmune hemolytic anemia include:[1][3] 

Last updated: 3/9/2016

Is autoimmune hemolytic anemia inherited?

In many cases, the cause of autoimmune hemolytic anemia remains unknown.[1][2][3] Some researchers believe that there are multiple factors involved, including genetic and environmental influences (multifactorial).[1] In a very small number of cases, autoimmune hemolytic anemia appears to run in families. In these cases, it appears to follow an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance.[4]

If you have concerns about the specific risks in your family, we encourage you to consult with a genetics professional.
Last updated: 3/9/2016

What is the outlook for people with autoimmune hemolytic anemia?

The outlook depends on the underlying cause of the disease and whether symptoms are managed appropriately and in a timely manner. Death as a result of autoimmune hemolytic anemia is rare.[1]
Last updated: 3/9/2016

We hope this information is helpful. We strongly recommend you discuss this information with your doctor. If you still have questions, please contact us.

Warm regards,
GARD Information Specialist

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  1. Michel M. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Orphanet. August 2010; http://www.orpha.net/consor/cgi-bin/Disease_Search.php?lng=EN&data_id=13392.
  2. Lichtin AE. Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia. Merck Manual. 2016; http://www.merckmanuals.com/home/blood-disorders/anemia/autoimmune-hemolytic-anemia.
  3. Hemolytic Anemia. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/hemolytic-anemia. Accessed 12/26/2017.
  4. ANEMIA, AUTOIMMUNE HEMOLYTIC. Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM). November 12, 1995; http://www.omim.org/entry/205700.