HIV-associated autoimmune hemolytic anemia complicated by pulmonary embolism following a red blood cell transfusion: case report and review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Though positive direct antiglobulin tests are common in AIDS patients, overt hemolysis is rare. A hypercoagulable state has recently been recognized in these patients and may contribute to the thromboembotic complications previously reported in three patients with HIV-associated autoimmune hemolytic anemia.


METHODS
An AIDS patient with severe warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia developed a pulmonary embolus after a single red blood cell transfusion.


CONCLUSIONS
There may be an increased risk of thromboembolism in AIDS patients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia who receive red blood cell transfusions, a concern we have previously raised. Prophylactic anticoagulation should be considered in this setting.
Saif
M W
MW
University of Connecticut School of Medicine, USA.
Morse
E E
EE
Greenberg
B R
BR
D000328:Adult; D000744:Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D017707:Erythrocyte Transfusion / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*
D000925:Anticoagulants