A patient with anemia is found to have a low serum level of haptoglobin. What is the most likely cause of this finding?

A Hemolysis due to autoimmune disorders ✓
B Chronic liver disease
C Nephrotic syndrome
D Hemorrhage into a body cavity

Explanation

Haptoglobin is a protein that binds to free hemoglobin in the bloodstream. In cases of intravascular hemolysis, such as those caused by autoimmune disorders, the level of haptoglobin decreases because it is consumed as it binds to the released hemoglobin.

Source

Mayo Clinic proceedings and other medical literature
Hematology Hematology: Anemia Hematology: Anemia Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high