Autoimmunity
I. Hemocytolytic Autoimmune Diseases
(i) Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
Autoantibodies against erythrocytes are demonstrable in this condition. Serologically, two groups of autoimmune anemia can be distinguished, characterized by ‘Cold’ and ‘Warm’ antibodies, respectively.
- Cold autoantibodies
The cold autoantibodies are, generally complete agglutinating antibodies belonging to the Ig M class and agglutinate erythrocytes at 4º C but not at 37º C.
- Warm autoantibodies
The warm autoantibodies are generally incomplete, non-agglutinting antibodies usually belonging to the Ig G class.
(ii) Autoimmune Thrombocytopenia
Autoantibodies directed against platelets occur in idiopatic thrombocytopenic purpura. Sedormid purpura is an instance of immune response against drug induced neoantigens on platelets.
(iii) Autoimmune leucopenia
Nonagglutinating antileucocyte antibodies can be demonstrated in the serum of patients with systemic lupus erythematous and rheumatoid arthritis.