What is erythroblastosis foetalis?

Explanation

Destruction of RBC of. Rh positive foetus by anti Rh antibodies produced by Rh negative mother due to immunological incompatibility is called Erythroblastosis foetalis or Haemolytic disorder of newborn (HDNB). This is due to genetically incompatible marriage involving Rh positive father and Rh negative mother. At the time of birth the Rh positive foetal blood mixes with the Rh negative blood of mother, through the ruptured placenta. The Rh antigens sensitize the mother to produce anti Rh antibodies (IgG antibodies) and memory cells. This first Rh positive by is unaffected because it is delivered by the time mother is sensitized. During the next pregnancy bearing Rh positive foetus these antibodies increase in concentration due to memory cells and cross the placenta, enter the blood of baby and destroy the . RBC. Haemolytic anaemia is the symptom in this disorder.