中国结合医学杂志（英文版）Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine

Author Name	Affiliation	E-mail
Nam-Hun Lee, Jung-Hyo Cho
Chang-Gue Son	Liver and Immunology Research Center, Daejeon Oriental Hospital, Oriental Medical College, 301-724, Daejeon University	ckson@dju.kr

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Abstract:

Autoimmune hemolyt ic anemia (AIHA) is uncommon but prospective fatal condition with an incidence rate of 1–3 per 100,000 persons. AIHA is characterized by autoantibodies with specificity against red blood cell (RBC) antigens leading to an increased removal of red cells from blood circulation. AIHA responds well to steroids, but most patients remain steroid-dependent, and many cases require second-line treatment. Currently, splenectomy can be regarded as the most effective and best-evaluated second-line therapy, but there are still only limited data on long-term efficacy and adverse effects. The monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody rituximab, another second-line therapy, is effective only in short-term and not for long-term. The efficacy of other immunosuppressant is poorly evaluated. Accordingly, AIHA patients who are refractory to conventional therapies still need alternative treatment.