Haemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (HDFN)

The incidence of HDFN due to RhD has fallen substantially since
the introduction of RhD immunoglobulin. However, the
identification of a pregnant woman at risk of RhD senstitisation
is extremely important to ensure that she receives RhD
immunoglobulin appropriately.


Here, Dr Helen Savoia talks about HDFN, sensitising events and
the management of RhD negative women with regard to laboratory
testing, surveillance and administration of RhD immunoglobulin in
line with the ‘Prophylactic use of RhD immunoglobulin in
pregnancy care’ guideline available at www.blood.gov.au.