Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a serious blood disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the body's own red blood cells, leading to anemia and potentially life-threatening complications. It is caused by the production of autoantibodies that target red blood cell surface proteins, triggering premature destruction of these cells. The Antibody Screen, RBC with Reflex to Identification, Titer, and Antigen Typing is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects the specific autoantibodies responsible for red blood cell destruction.
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Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is caused by the production of autoantibodies that mistakenly recognize red blood cell surface proteins as foreign invaders and mark them for destruction. These autoantibodies, primarily immunoglobulin G (IgG) or immunoglobulin M (IgM), bind to red blood cells and trigger their premature destruction by the spleen, liver, or directly in the bloodstream. This condition can develop on its own (primary) or secondary to other autoimmune diseases like lupus, certain infections, medications, or blood cancers that disrupt normal immune system function.
The Antibody Screen, RBC with Reflex to Identification, Titer, and Antigen Typing is the most important test for autoimmune hemolytic anemia because it detects the specific autoantibodies attacking your red blood cells and identifies their exact type and concentration. This comprehensive test uses the direct antiglobulin test (DAT or Coombs test) to confirm that antibodies are coating your red blood cells, which is the definitive diagnostic marker for this condition. Additional blood typing tests like ABO Grouping and Rho(D) Typing and Rh Typing help rule out other causes of red blood cell destruction and guide treatment decisions, especially if blood transfusions become necessary.
You should get tested if you experience unexplained fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin (jaundice), dark-colored urine, rapid heartbeat, or shortness of breath that suggests your red blood cells are being destroyed faster than your body can replace them. Testing is especially important if you have an existing autoimmune condition like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, have recently started a new medication, or notice these symptoms developing suddenly after an infection. Early diagnosis through antibody screening can prevent serious complications like severe anemia, heart problems, or organ damage from inadequate oxygen delivery to your tissues.
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What this means
Your antibody screen came back negative, meaning no unexpected antibodies were detected in your blood. This is the expected and healthy result, indicating that you have a lower risk of complications during pregnancy or blood transfusions.
Recommended actions
If pregnant, follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for repeat testing around 28 weeks
Keep a record of your blood type and antibody status for future medical procedures
If Rh-negative and pregnant, discuss Rh immunoglobulin (RhoGAM) with your doctor
Retest if you have another pregnancy or before any planned surgery requiring transfusions
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