Question

Why is the K antigen so important in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn?

1) Because the K antigen develops at 10 weeks gestation and anti-K causes both intravascular and extravascular hemolysis
2) Because the K antigen develops on early red cell precursors which when destroyed by anti-K suppresses the maturation of red cells
3) Because anti-K is more hemolytic than suppressive of red cell maturation
4) Because the K antigen develops at 10 weeks after birth and anti-K causes a delayed hemolytic transfusion reaction after the baby has gone home

Answer 1

The K antigen is important in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn because it can cause both intravascular and extravascular hemolysis. Anti-K antibodies can also suppress the maturation of red cells.

Step-by-step explanation:

The K antigen is important in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn because it plays a role in the development of antibodies that can cause both intravascular and extravascular hemolysis.

The K antigen develops on early red cell precursors, and when these cells are destroyed by anti-K antibodies, it can suppress the maturation of red cells.