Final answer:
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is characterized by the destruction of red blood cells by the immune system. Lab findings include decreased haptoglobin, negative Coombs' test, elevated levels of antinuclear antibodies (ANA), and presence of Heinz bodies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a condition characterized by the destruction of red blood cells by the immune system. Lab findings associated with autoimmune hemolytic anemia include:
- Decreased haptoglobin levels
- Negative Coombs' test (direct antiglobulin test)
- Elevated expression levels of antinuclear antibodies (ANA)
- Presence of Heinz bodies in red blood cells on a blood film
In addition, autoimmune hemolytic anemia can occur in type II hypersensitivity reactions, such as hemolytic transfusion reaction and hemolytic disease of the newborn.