Rh Isoimmunization

General Information on Rh Isoimmunization

RH isoimmunization, also referred to as erythroblastosis fetalis is an incompatibility between an infant’s blood and the blood type of the mother. The condition is characterized by the gradual destruction of the infant’s red blood cells by the antibodies from its mother during pregnancy and after delivery. The condition is caused by an RH negative mother and an RH positive father.

Symptoms of Rh Isoimmunization

Symptoms depend on the developmental stages of the child and are divided between the signs that occur during pregnancy and those that occur in newborn infants.

Signs during pregnancy

Decreased fetal movement
Decreased fetal growth

Signs in newborns

Jaundice (begins 24 hours after delivery)
Paleness
Edema (tissue swelling)
Unexplained bruising or blood ‘spots’ under skin
Breathing difficulties
Abnormal movement
Poor reflexes
Seizures

Treatments For Rh Isoimmunization

The most certain diagnostic method for infants is to conduct blood studies in order to detect the mother’s, father’s, and infant’s blood type and to measure the mother’s Rh-positive antibodies. Blood studies are also used to check for anemia in the infant’s blood. Other diagnostic techniques can be used in order to detect the disorder before birth. Two of these techniques include amniocentesis and cordocentesis. Amniocentesis is performed by withdrawing a small amount of amniotic fluid from the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus in the mothers uterus. This may help doctors determine a baby’s blood type before delivery. Cordocentesis (PUBS) is a similar procedure that samples umbilical blood in order to determine fetal blood type and possible anemia. However, these tests present certain risks and may be avoided if possible.

The most common form of treatment is a complete blood transfusion after birth. This is known as an exchange transfusion, and exchanges the infant’s blood entirely. Most newborn infants will need to remain in the hospital for up to two weeks. Although, if left untreated the condition may cause serious complications, most cases are treated immediately after delivery. In such cases, the outcome is usually good.

Personal Experience

Rh Isoimmunization - personal experiences