Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) occurs when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive fetus, leading to sensitization, maternal antibody production, and subsequent hemolysis, causing harm to the fetus.
Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) arises when an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive fetus. The danger lies in the potential sensitization of the mother's immune system to the Rh-positive blood cells of the fetus. During pregnancy or delivery, fetal blood may mix with the mother's blood, leading to the production of Rh antibodies in the mother's bloodstream. In subsequent pregnancies with Rh-positive fetuses, these antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the red blood cells of the fetus, causing hemolysis or the breakdown of the fetal red blood cells.
This hemolytic process can result in severe complications for the newborn, including anemia, jaundice, and, in severe cases, fetal hydrops or even death. The condition can be prevented through Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) injections, which help prevent sensitization in Rh-negative mothers and protect future pregnancies from the harmful effects of Rh incompatibility.