SARS-CoV-2-induced autoimmune hemolytic anemia in pediatric age-group

Abstract

SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) since the year 2020 has been affecting people of all age groups involving all systems possible. The effect of COVID-19 on hematological system has been commonly seen in the form of cytopenia, prothrombotic states, or disorders of coagulation, but it has been rarely implicated as a causal factor for hemolytic anemia in children. We present a 12-year-old male child who presented in congestive cardiac failure due to severe hemolytic anemia caused by SARS-CoV-2, with hemoglobin falling to a nadir of 1.8 g/dL. Child was diagnosed as a case of autoimmune hemolytic anemia and managed with supportive management and long-term steroids. This case highlights one of the lesser known effects of the virus, causing severe hemolysis and the role of steroids in its treatment.