Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH)

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Blood cells

PCH is a rare blood disorder involving antibody formation that destroys red blood cells after an affected person is exposed to the cold.

PCH

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria is a condition in which antibodies are formed that attack a specific type of blood cell. These antibodies bind (attach) to red blood cells and to a cell-lysing (destroying)protein in the blood called complement. This only occurs in the cold, and usually affects only the hands and feet.

The cell destruction occurs when the blood cells become rewarmed by circulating through the body. As the cells are destroyed, hemoglobin is released into the blood and passed in the urine.

The disease has been associated with secondary syphilis, tertiary syphilis, and other infections (caused by viruses or bacteria). Sometimes the cause is unknown.

Recovery from the attacks is very quick, and people with this disease do not experience symptoms between episodes. Usually, the attacks end as soon as the affected cells are no longer in circulation. The risk factors are viral infection and syphilis. The disorder is rare.

Review Date: 04/15/2005
Reviewed By: Rita Nanda, MD, Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.