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IVT
cold agglutinins
Antibodies that cause red blood cell clumping at low temperatures, complicating hypothermic cardiac surgery.
Full Definition
Cold agglutinins are autoantibodies that react with red blood cell antigens at temperatures below normal body temperature, causing erythrocyte aggregation and potential hemolysis. During cardiac surgery requiring hypothermia, these antibodies can cause significant complications including hemolysis, vascular occlusion, and hemoglobinuria. Preoperative screening is essential in patients with relevant clinical history, and management may require warming strategies, plasma exchange, or avoidance of hypothermia.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify testing results and temperature thresholds when documenting cold agglutinin concerns.
In Context
- "Preoperative cold agglutinins testing revealed high titers requiring modified cooling protocol." — Laboratory report
- "The patient's history of cold agglutinins necessitated normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass." — Anesthesia plan
Also known as
cold antibodies
cold autoantibodies
Don't confuse with
warm agglutinins
cryoglobulins