Overview:
Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a rare subtype of autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) driven by immunoglobulin M autoantibodies (cold agglutinins) that bind erythrocyte surface antigens and trigger hemolysis exclusively via activation of the classical complement pathway . The clinical presentation of CAD is often nonspecific, leading to a complex differential diagnosis. Clinicians must have a high index of suspicion based on symptoms. The diagnosis of hemolytic anemia is based on hemoglobin levels and markers of hemolysis such as bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase, and haptoglobin. A monospecific (extended) direct antiglobulin test (DAT), also called a “Coombs test” must then be performed to confirm autoimmune pathogenesis and recognize complement activation.
This symposium features our Cases & Conversations™
format, in which clinical experts use case-based discussions to highlight
clinically relevant aspects of diagnosing and managing CAD. This engaging
format is designed to help clinicians identify best clinical practices
regarding diagnosis, therapy selection, monitoring for adverse events, and
using multidisciplinary strategies to improve outcomes for their patients with CAD.
Learning Objectives:
Upon completion of this activity, learners will be better able to:
- Differentiate CAD from other autoimmune hemolytic anemias based on clinical presentation and pathophysiology
- Apply appropriate diagnostic workup, including DAT interpretation and cold agglutinin testing
- Evaluate mechanisms of action, efficacy, and safety of approved and emerging CAD therapies
- Individualize treatment selection based on disease severity, symptom burden, and patient characteristics
- Implement strategies for monitoring response and managing complications, including thromboembolic risk
Target Audience:
This educational activity is directed toward physicians,
hematologists, nurses, NPs/PAs, pharmacists, and other health care
professionals (HCPs) involved in the diagnosis and treatment of cold agglutinin
disease (CAD).
Physicians’ Education Resource®, LLC, is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
Physicians’ Education Resource®, LLC designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Physicians’ Education Resource®, LLC is approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider #16669, for 1.0 Contact Hour.
