Pregnancy-related Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in a Sickle Cell and Beta-thalassemia Trait Patient: A Rare Case Report
Niranjhana Sree *
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India.
Aakriti Puri
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India.
Babita Raghuwanshi
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, India.
Devesh Dubey
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The presence of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) further complicates the clinical landscape. The coexistence of sickle cell anemia and AIHA during pregnancy poses significant risks, including severe anemia, increased likelihood of crises, and heightened maternal and fetal morbidity. We report a case of 29-year-old pregnant patient with sickle cell anemia (sca) and β-thalassemia trait, complicated by autoimmune hemolytic anemia (aiha). She presented with severe anemia and jaundice at 36 weeks, requiring transfusions, plasma exchange, and hemodialysis due to inadequate response to transfusions. The interplay of oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and pregnancy-related changes exacerbated aiha. This case highlights the challenges of managing AIHA in SCA during pregnancy and the need for coordinated care to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes. Ongoing research is vital to improve management strategies and outcomes, enabling better care for affected patients and their infants. Through coordinated multidisciplinary efforts, healthcare providers can enhance the health and well-being of mothers and their children.
Keywords: Sickle cell anaemia, Beta Thalassemia Trait, Autoimmune hemolytic anaemia, direct coombs test, indirect coombs test