LAUSR

Introduction: Since December 2019, multiple human cases of novel coronavirus infection were reported, representing with upper respiratory symptoms (influenza-like presentation).  The virus was named the Severe acute respiratory system coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2).  Studies have reported  cases of patients with COVID-19 infection, including development of  several autoimmune events that suggests that infection with  SARS CoV-2 may be associated with initiation of autoimmune  hematological autoimmune disorders. Aim: Review the hematological autoimmune phenomenon after infection with SARS-COV-2 in order to assist into the pathogenic mechanisms, clinical manifestations and treatment of this group of patients.   Materials and methods: This is a retrospective study that includes 21 patients with autoimmune diseases like secondary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), autoimmune hemolytic anemia( AIHA) and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) that have emerged after COVID-19 infection. The patients were diagnosed and treated at the University Clinic of Hematology for a period of time from January 2020 to April 2021.  Results: The most common hematologic autoimmune disorder was ITP in 13 cases (62%) followed by AIHA in 5 cases (24%) and TTP in 3 individuals (14%).  The mean time of onset of the hematologic auto-immune presentations was 18,4 ± 10,3 days. The therapy of this conditions in patients with COVID-19 infection requires an individualized approach to achieve a precise balance between the risk of severe bleeding and of thromboembolic events.   Conclusion: Causal relationship between COVID-19 infection and these autoimmune events still requires further studies. We should all have in mind the risk of development of hematologic autoimmune disorders in infected patients.