Hemolytic disease of the newborn

Definition

Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) is a condition where the immune system of an Rh-negative mother produces antibodies that attack the red blood cells of her Rh-positive baby. This leads to hemolysis and significant health issues for the infant.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. HDN commonly occurs due to Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus.
2. The direct antiglobulin test (DAT) is used in diagnosing HDN by detecting antibodies attached to red blood cells.
3. Agglutination assays are vital for identifying maternal antibodies against fetal red blood cells in HDN cases.
4. Rho(D) immune globulin can prevent HDN if administered to the Rh-negative mother during pregnancy and after delivery.
5. Severe HDN may require intrauterine transfusions or early delivery to manage fetal anemia.

Review Questions

• What immunological mechanism causes hemolytic disease of the newborn?
• How does an agglutination assay contribute to diagnosing HDN?
• What preventative treatment is available for RH-negative mothers to avoid HDN?

Related terms

Direct Antiglobulin Test (DAT): A test used to detect antibodies or complement proteins attached to the surface of red blood cells.

Rh Incompatibility: A condition where an Rh-negative mother's immune system reacts against her Rh-positive baby's red blood cells.

Rho(D) Immune Globulin: A medication given to Rh-negative mothers to prevent antibody formation against Rh-positive fetal blood cells.