Diseases
hemolytic disease
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) — also called erythroblastosis fetalis — is a blood disorder that occurs when the blood types of a mother and baby are incompatible. HDN is relatively uncommon in the United States due to advances in early detection and treatment, limiting it to approximately 4,000 cases a year.
Symptoms
- fever
- abnormal paleness or lack of color of the skin.
- yellowish skin, eyes, and mouth (jaundice)
- dark-colored urine.
- can't handle physical activity.
Causes
- certain infections, which may be viral or bacterial.
- medicines, such as penicillin, antimalarial medicines, sulfa medicines, or acetaminophen.
- blood cancers.
Risk factors
- rh negative mother has a baby with an rh positive father.
Diagnosis
- blood tests.
- genetic testing
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is hemolytic disease?
Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) — also called erythroblastosis fetalis — is a blood disorder that occurs when the blood types of a mother and baby are incompatible. HDN is relatively uncommon in the United States due to advances in early detection and treatment, limiting it to approximately 4,000 cases a year.
What are the symptoms of hemolytic disease?
fever, abnormal paleness or lack of color of the skin., yellowish skin, eyes, and mouth (jaundice), dark-colored urine., can't handle physical activity.
What causes hemolytic disease?
certain infections, which may be viral or bacterial.; medicines, such as penicillin, antimalarial medicines, sulfa medicines, or acetaminophen.; blood cancers.
Which medicines are used for hemolytic disease?
rho(d)human immunoglobulin
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