Neva Abelson

American physician and pathologist

Neva Abelson

Neva Abelson was a pioneering American physician and pathologist known for her significant contributions to medical science, particularly in the development of the Rh factor test. Her work has had a lasting impact on hematology and obstetrics, improving the safety of blood transfusions and prenatal care.

Early Life and Education

Neva Abelson was born in 1910 in Kansas, United States. She grew up in a family that valued education and scientific inquiry. Abelson pursued her undergraduate studies at Washington State University, where she developed a keen interest in the biological sciences. She later attended the University of Rochester School of Medicine, earning her medical degree in 1938.

Career and Research

After completing her medical degree, Abelson embarked on a career in pathology. She joined the faculty at the University of Pennsylvania, where she worked alongside her husband, Philip Abelson, a noted physicist and chemist. It was during her tenure at the University of Pennsylvania that Neva Abelson made her most significant contribution to medical science: the development of the Rh factor test.

Development of the Rh Factor Test

The Rh factor test, developed in collaboration with Louis K. Diamond, was a groundbreaking advancement in the field of hematology. This test allowed for the detection of the Rh factor in blood, which is crucial for determining compatibility in blood transfusions and preventing hemolytic disease of the newborn. Prior to this development, Rh incompatibility could lead to severe complications in newborns, including jaundice, anemia, and even death.

Impact on Medicine

Abelson's work on the Rh factor test revolutionized prenatal care and blood transfusion practices. By enabling the early detection of Rh incompatibility, her research significantly reduced the incidence of hemolytic disease in newborns. This advancement has saved countless lives and remains a standard practice in modern medicine.

Later Life and Legacy

Neva Abelson continued her work in pathology and medical research throughout her career. She was a dedicated educator, mentoring many students and young professionals in the field of medicine. Abelson's contributions to medical science have been widely recognized, and she is remembered as a trailblazer for women in medicine.

Abelson passed away in 2000, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and dedication to improving human health. Her work continues to influence medical practices and inspire future generations of physicians and researchers.

Related Pages

• Rh factor
• Hemolytic disease of the newborn
• Blood transfusion
• Pathology
• University of Pennsylvania