A Pediatric Case of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia followed by Excessive Thrombocytosis and Leukocytosis

ABSTRACT

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is characterized by the production of antibodies directed against red blood cells (RBCs). It is usually accompanied by normal white blood cell (WBC) and platelet counts. Severe leukocytosis and thrombocytosis in AIHA are rare. Here, we report a 3-year-old female child who showed AIHA by warm antibody testing with both leukocytosis and thrombocytosis. The patient was treated with oral steroids for 5 days. During treatment, the leukocytosis was noted on hospital day 3 and was up to 60.87 x 10(9)/L. In addition, the thrombocytosis persisted at up to 725 x 10(9)/L. After day 7, the WBC and platelet counts returned to the normal range. The clinical condition and vital signs improved. The patient was discharged on day 12. This case demonstrated that patients with primary AIHA, may also have leukocytosis and thrombocytosis.