There are three types of immune hemolytic anemias:
- Alloimmune hemolytic anemia occurs when the immune system produces an antibody against foreign or non-self antigens.
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia occurs when the immune system fails to distinguish the difference between self and non-self antigens.
- Drug-induced hemolytic anemia occurs when drugs stimulate the formation of antibodies against the drug itself or against intrinsic RBC antigens.