In severe cases of cold agglutinin disease (CAD), plasmapheresis may be performed to remove autoantibodies called cold agglutinins from the blood to alleviate disease symptoms. If you will be undergoing the procedure, here’s what you can expect. What is CAD? CAD is a rare autoimmune disorder in…
One of the tests that can help diagnose cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a cold agglutinin test or cold agglutinin titer. How does the cold agglutinin test work? An increase in antibodies called cold agglutinins causes CAD. These are antibodies that bind to red blood cells…
The majority of people with cold agglutinin disease (CAD) — between 80% to 99% — experience chronic joint pain. Here are some tips for dealing with it. What is CAD? CAD is a rare autoimmune disorder in which exposure to cold temperatures (between 32 and 50 F; 0 and…
Many patients with cold agglutinin disease (CAD) develop heart problems. CAD is a rare disease in which the immune system produces antibodies against red blood cells. When exposed to cold temperatures (below body temperature), these antibodies attack the red blood cells, causing the immune system to destroy them.
If your doctor is knowledgeable about a rare disorder such as cold agglutinin disease (CAD), you should make the most of your visits, particularly in the weeks and months following your diagnosis. Here is a guide to help you do just that. About the disease CAD is a…
The process of getting a diagnosis for cold agglutinin disease (CAD) may be lengthy and frustrating. Often, multiple laboratory tests are required, and each negative test can make you feel like you’re constantly starting over when you’re trying to figure out what’s wrong. Once you receive a…
Acrocyanosis is a blueish discoloration of the skin that occurs because of the blockage of small blood vessels, which leads to a lack of blood flow. Acrocyanosis usually appears in the hands and feet, but it also can occur in the nose, nipples and ears. In cold agglutinin…
Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a rare autoimmune disease in which the immune system makes antibodies that mistakenly attack red blood cells in cold temperatures. The disease is characterized by anemia and other symptoms, including Raynaud’s phenomenon. What is Raynaud’s phenomenon? Raynaud’s phenomenon is when the…
Patients with rare conditions like cold agglutinin disease (CAD) can help with the development of new treatments by participating in clinical trials. This is also a way for patients to get access to new medications in development that are not otherwise available. What are clinical trials? Clinical trials are…
Cold agglutinin disease (CAD) is a rare disorder in which the body mistakenly produces antibodies against its own red blood cells. In colder temperatures, these antibodies bind to the red blood cells and target them for destruction. CAD can cause a problem for heart surgery patients. That’s why…
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