Skip to Main Content

For further information, see CMDT Part 21-04: Prevention of Rhesus Alloimmunization

KEY FEATURES

  • Anti-Rho(D) antibody causes severe hemolytic disease of the newborn

  • Occurs when a Rho(D)-negative woman carries a Rho(D)-positive fetus and develops antibodies against Rho(D)

  • The antibody developed against Rho(D) persists and poses a threat of hemolytic disease in subsequent Rho(D)-positive fetuses

  • Passive immunization of Rho(D)-negative mothers after delivery destroys fetal Rho(D)-positive cells and prevents formation of antibodies, which would cause disease in subsequent Rho(D)-positive gestations

CLINICAL FINDINGS

  • Routine antibody screen is positive

TREATMENT

  • Rho(D) immune globulin (one vial of 300 mcg intramuscularly) is given to the Rho(D)-negative mother within 72 h after delivery to prevent future erythroblastosis

  • Additional protection is afforded by the routine administration of the immune globulin at week 28 to all Rho(D)-negative mothers; the passive antibody titer is too low to significantly affect a Rho(D)-positive fetus

  • Rho(D) immune globulin should also be given after induced or spontaneous pregnancy loss, ectopic pregnancy, placental abruption, or other instances of antepartum bleeding

  • Once a woman is alloimmunized, Rho(D) Ig is no longer helpful and should not be given

Pop-up div Successfully Displayed

This div only appears when the trigger link is hovered over. Otherwise it is hidden from view.

  • Create a Free Profile