A Compelling Case of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia and Its Potential Association With SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia can be caused by infections, lymphoproliferative disorders, autoimmune disorders, or triggered by drugs or toxins. We present the case of a 92-year-old man admitted with gastrointestinal symptoms. He presented with autoimmune hemolytic anemia. The etiologic study was negative for autoimmune conditions or solid masses. Viral serologies were negative, and RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 was positive. The patient began treatment with corticoid, with resulted in cessation of hemolysis and improvement of the anemia. A few cases of autoimmune hemolytic anemia have been reported in COVID-19 patients. In this case, the infection seems to coincide with the hemolysis period, and we found no other cause for this event. So, we highlight the need to search for SARS-CoV-2 as a possible infective cause of autoimmune hemolytic anemia.