Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia (AIHA) Secondary to Yersinia enterocolitica Septicemia: The Second Case Reported in the Literature

Yersinia enterocolitica infection is an uncommon but potentially fatal zoonosis, especially when it culminates with septicaemia. Post-infectious complications like reactive arthritis and erythema nodosum are well described in the literature. On the other hand, the association between yersinosis and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) has only been established in one clinical case. We present a case of an 87-year-old man admitted for AIHA, whose was successfully treated only after the identification and treatment of yersinosis. LEARNING POINTS: Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia is a potentially fatal condition that requires a high index of suspicion. Hundreds of potential causes have been described, some associated with infectious disease. Treatment is based on both corticosteroid therapy and treatment of the underlying condition.