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Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia (AIHA) is a rare blood disorder in which the immune system produces antibodies that mistakenly attack and destroy the body’s own red blood cells. This premature destruction, known as haemolysis, can cause a shortage of healthy red blood cells and reduce oxygen delivery to tissues.

AIHA may develop without an identifiable cause, known as primary or idiopathic AIHA, or occur secondary to conditions such as autoimmune diseases, infections, certain cancers, or some medications. The disorder can involve warm-reacting antibodies, which are more common, or cold-reacting antibodies that become active at lower temperatures.

Common symptoms include persistent tiredness, weakness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, pale or yellowish skin, dark urine, and shortness of breath. Some individuals may have an enlarged spleen due to increased removal of damaged red blood cells.

Diagnosis usually involves a complete blood count, reticulocyte count, bilirubin and lactate dehydrogenase measurements, haptoglobin testing, and a direct antiglobulin (Coombs) test. Treatment depends on severity and the underlying cause. Corticosteroids are commonly used for warm AIHA, while other immune-modifying medicines, blood transfusions, or specialist treatments may be required in persistent or severe cases. Early diagnosis and appropriate monitoring can help control haemolysis and prevent complications.