Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia: A rare complication of acute pancreatitis
Document Type
Case Report
Department
Gastroenterology; Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Abstract
Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA) is a rare subtype of hemolytic anemia characterized by elevated hemolytic markers and red blood cell destruction. Though uncommon, MAHA can occur as a complication of acute pancreatitis because of the associated inflammatory response. Patients with MAHA secondary to pancreatitis show favorable outcomes when treated with plasma exchange. This paper presents the case of a patient diagnosed with acute pancreatitis-induced hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia, who was managed successfully with plasma exchange, steroids, and rituximab. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion in patients with acute pancreatitis who present with anemia, thrombocytopenia, and schistocytes on peripheral smears, even in the absence of end-organ injuries and with normal ADAMTS13 activity. The early initiation of plasmapheresis can be lifesaving. The timely introduction of rituximab in cases where plasma exchange and steroids are insufficient, despite the ADAMTS13 activity status, may lead to better outcomes
Publication (Name of Journal)
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology
DOI
10.4166/kjg.2024.110
Recommended Citation
Karim, M. M.,
Ayesha, S.,
Ali, M.,
adil, s.,
Shahid, A. H.
(2025). Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia: A rare complication of acute pancreatitis. The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology, 85(1), 73-77.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/pakistan_fhs_mc_med_gastroenterol/370
