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.

CASE REPORT

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

CONCLUSION

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.