Description:
This article discusses hemolytic
disease of the newborn (HDN). The most common cause of this syndrome is blood
group incompatibility in which maternal antibody enters fetal circulation via
the placenta, attaches to the fetus’ red blood cells (RBCs) and causes
destruction of those RBCs. To compensate for the loss of RBCs and resultant
anemia, the fetal bone marrow (medullary hematopoiesis) and liver and spleen
(extramedullary hematopoiesis) attempt to compensate by producing more RBCs and
pushing younger cells into the peripheral circulation.
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the etiology of HDN
- Identify the types of HDN
- Discuss treatment options for HDN
Author(s):
Kristina Eppinette
Debbie Wisenor, MA, MT(ASCP)
George H. Roberts, EdD, MT(AMT)
Launched: 2004