Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (Rh)

Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (Rh) is a condition that affects the blood system of unborn babies and newborns. It happens when a mother's immune system attacks the baby's red blood cells because they have a different blood group called the Rh factor. This immune reaction can cause the baby's red blood cells to break down too quickly, leading to anemia, jaundice, and sometimes serious complications like swelling or heart problems. The disease mainly involves the immune system and the baby's circulatory system. It usually occurs when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive baby, causing the mother's body to produce antibodies against the baby's blood cells. This condition can affect the baby's health before and after birth.

Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (Rh) is an alloimmune condition caused by maternal sensitization to fetal Rh(D) antigen on red blood cells, leading to the production of maternal IgG anti-D antibodies. These antibodies cross the placenta and cause immune-mediated hemolysis of fetal erythrocytes, resulting in fetal anemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and potentially hydrops fetalis. The disease typically occurs in Rh-negative mothers previously sensitized by prior pregnancy or transfusion with Rh-positive blood. The major clinical significance lies in the risk of severe fetal anemia, heart failure, and neonatal jaundice with kernicterus. Diagnosis and management focus on preventing maternal sensitization and monitoring fetal well-being.