Management of Rhesus Isoimmunised Pregnancy

Abstract

Rhesus (Rh) isoimmunization remains a leading cause of fetal anemia/fetal hydrops and subsequently haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn in low-income and middle-income countries. Rh isoimmunization can be easily prevented by simple and effective prophylaxis. Fetal anemia can be treated successfully in utero by intrauterine blood transfusion. However, if fetal anemia is not optimally and appropriately treated in time, it can result in hydrops fetalis and even intrauterine death. Serious neonatal complications such as kernicterus can also develop due to severe jaundice in neonates.