Severe Coombs Positive Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia after Alemtuzumab Infusion for Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. What Can We Learn?

Conclusion: Severe coombs positive AIHA is a rare life-threatening complication that can occur after Alemtuzumab infusion for RRMS. It can be rapidly progressive, intravascular, severe (hemoglobin frequently reaching to <5gm/dl) and frequently refractory to steroids. It usually occurs between 3-15 months after the Alemtuzumab infusion and can be fatal (with 1 reported death so far). Higher level of awareness is needed by the consulting hematologists of such a rare serious adverse effect that can occur specifically few months after Alemtuzumab infusion and calls for a closer monitoring of patient's hematological status during this recovery period.DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Source: Blood - November 21, 2018 Category: Hematology Authors: Desai, P. A., Romere, C. M., Nguyen, L., Saksena, A., Abdullah, S. J., Diaz, A. E. Tags: 101. Red Cells and Erythropoiesis, Structure and Function, Metabolism, and Survival, Excluding Iron: Poster II Source Type: research