Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is highly prevalent in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and some studies report poorer outcomes in patients with both conditions. Taken together, these findings underscore the importance of early detection of SLE-associated AIHA.

“Although less frequent than thrombocytopenia or leukopenia, AIHA remains one of the most common hematologic manifestations of SLE,” said Dr. Kallas.

In many cases, AIHA presents early in the SLE disease course and represents the first sign of that disorder. Dr. Kallas cited a study published in 2000 showing that AIHA was the initial disease manifestation in 66% of participants with SLE.

Read the full article at rarediseaseadvisor.com.