Erythroblastosis fetalis

Erythroblastosis fetalis is a severe medical condition that most commonly occurs in a fetus due to incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and the fetus. This condition is also known as hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) or Rh disease.

Causes

Erythroblastosis fetalis is caused by an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and the fetus. This incompatibility can occur if the mother has Rh-negative blood and the fetus has Rh-positive blood, a condition known as Rh incompatibility. The mother's immune system can produce antibodies against the Rh-positive blood cells of the fetus, leading to hemolysis, or destruction of the fetus's red blood cells.

Symptoms

Symptoms of erythroblastosis fetalis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include:

• Jaundice
• Anemia
• Heart failure
• Edema (swelling)
• Hepatosplenomegaly (enlargement of the liver and spleen)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of erythroblastosis fetalis can be made through various tests, including:

• Blood tests
• Ultrasound
• Amniocentesis

Treatment

Treatment for erythroblastosis fetalis may include:

• Blood transfusion
• Intrauterine transfusion
• Phototherapy
• Exchange transfusion

Prevention

Prevention of erythroblastosis fetalis is possible through the administration of Rh immune globulin to the mother during pregnancy and after delivery.

See also

• Rh factor
• Blood type
• Hemolytic disease

References

Erythroblastosis fetalis Resources
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