Autoimmune hemolytic anemia associated with benign ovarian cyst: a case report and review of literature

Indian J Med Sci. 2003 Nov;57(11):504-6.

Abstract

A 28-years-old female presented with severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), warm antibody mediated, and right side tubo-ovarian (TO) mass. There was sub-optimal response to immunosuppressive therapy (IST). Eight months later she underwent ovarian cystectomy which resulted in complete remission of AIHA without the need for IST. Pathological examination of the TO mass revealed benign ovarian cyst. Our case highlights the need to search for ovarian cyst/mass in females presenting with AIHA. Since immunosuppressive therapy is usually ineffectual in AIHA associated with ovarian cyst, it may be appropriate to contemplate surgery before embarking on IST in such cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune / etiology*
  • Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Cysts / complications*
  • Ovarian Cysts / surgery