Jaundice & Anemia After a Cold

A 3-year-old presents with dark urine, jaundice, and new anemia after a URI. Explore the diagnosis of a post-infectious Hemolytic Anemia.

Cold agglutinin syndrome


A 3-year-old girl presented to the emergency department with a 1-day history of dark urine and jaundice after the development of an upper respiratory tract infection 1 week earlier. The physical examination was notable for pharyngeal erythema and exudates, conjunctival pallor, and scleral icterus. There was no hepatosplenomegaly, rash, or acrocyanosis. Laboratory studies showed a new anemia and findings consistent with hemolysis. A direct antiglobulin test was positive for C3d and weakly positive for IgG. A subsequent peripheral blood smear is shown. What is the most likely diagnosis?

What is the most likely diagnosis?

Cold agglutinin syndrome
G6PD Deficiency
Hemolytic uremic syndrome
Hereditary spherocytosis
Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia

Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia, Cold agglutinin syndrome, Hemolysis, Jaundice, Pediatrics

Leave a Comment