AUTO-IMMUNE HEMOLYTIC-ANEMIA IN ULCERATIVE-COLITIS - REPORT OF 3 CASES, REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE, AND EVALUATION OF MODES OF THERAPY

Three cases of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in association with idiopathic ulcerative colitis are reported; the literature is reviewed; and therapeutic modalities are considered. Successful treatment is shown to have resulted with steroids alone, steroids and immunosuppressives, splenectomy, and colectomy. It is concluded that moderate or severe hemolysis should be treated first with high-dose corticosteriods; if unsuccessful, immunosuppressive therapy may be added or a splenectomy performed. Finally, total colectomy should be reserved for fulminant colitis and its complications and is not indicated solely for hemolysis. © 1979 Digestive Disease Systems, Inc.