Haemolytic Anaemia Complicating Epstein‐barr Virus Infection

Abstract

SUMMARY Hepatitis is a well‐recognised complication of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection that usually resolves spontaneously. Jaundice occasionally results from the unusual complication of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia rather than hepatitis. Two adult patients are described with infectious mononucleosis‐related hepatitis who also developed significant haemolysis, a situation that could have led to diagnostic delay and a deleterious outcome. Haemolysis should be considered in all patients who become jaundiced after infectious mononucleosis. The management of this potentially fatal complication is discussed.