Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (wAIHA)

Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia (wAIHA) is an autoimmune condition in which red blood cells are destroyed prematurely, resulting in a decrease in the body's red blood cell count. wAIHA is referred to as warm because the antibodies that attach to red blood cells to cause their destruction are most active at normal body temperature.

Fatigue and dizziness

Paleness of skin

Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing

Mild splenomegaly (enlargement/inflammation of the spleen)

Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)

Heart palpitations

The following tests can be used to confirm a diagnosis of wAIHA:

Clinical History: Doctors will perform a comprehensive clinical evaluation and review the patient's medical history.

Blood Tests: Blood tests are performed to confirm anemia and hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells).

Coombs Test: A Coombs test evaluates the presence of antibodies that are bound to red blood cells.

Explore the treatment options available for wAIHA:

Corticosteroids: Prednisone is often used as the first line of treatment for wAIHA to suppress the immune system and decrease the destruction of red blood cells.

Rituximab: Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody targeting certain white blood cells that produce antibodies that cause red blood cells to be destroyed prematurely.

Splenectomy: The spleen is the primary site of hemolysis (red blood cell destruction) in wAIHA. Sometimes, spleen removal may be necessary in very severe cases of wAIHA that have not responded to treatment.

Transfusions: In other severe cases, red blood cell transfusions could be required to maintain proper red blood cell values.

Ongoing Research

wAIHA is a rare disease that requires more effective treatment options. To find these new treatments for wAIHA, further research is necessary.

Current Research Studies

Discover our featured study below. If the SApHiAre study is not right for you, there are approximately 8 wAIHA research studies that are actively recruiting participants. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to find wAIHA research studies near you.

Featured Study

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Resources

Find an online community of fellow patients, caregivers, and advocates below
as well as some other general resources!

Warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

A support group for those affected by warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

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wAIHA Warriors

wAIHA Warriors is an organization that provides a community dedicated to education, research, and advocacy for people living with wAIHA as well as their family members and caregivers.

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Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA diagnosed)

A group for individuals diagnosed with AIHA to share and discuss treatments, symptoms, and personal experiences.

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wAIHA Warriors

A forum hosted by wAIHA Warriors to help anyone impacted by wAIHA find support and connect with others.

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Global Autoimmune Institute

The Global Autoimmune Institute is an organization dedicated to improving the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases through education, research, and awareness.

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