Rh and ABO Incompatibility
Rh and ABO incompatibility are two of the most common types of blood
group incompatibilities, which can lead to serious complications during
pregnancy and childbirth. Understanding these differences is crucial for
ensuring safe medical care.
by ARUL KUMAR SIVARAMAN
Overview of Blood Types
1 ABO System 2 Rh Factor 3 Compatibility
Classifies blood into four main Describes whether a person has Certain blood type combinations
types: A, B, AB, and O. the Rh antigen (Rh-positive) or are compatible for transfusions
does not (Rh-negative). and pregnancy, while others can
cause dangerous immune
reactions.
Rh Factor: Positive vs. Negative
Rh-Positive Rh-Negative Importance
Individuals with the Rh antigen on Individuals who lack the Rh antigen The Rh factor is crucial in determining
their red blood cells. on their red blood cells. blood compatibility and potential
complications during pregnancy.
Rh Incompatibility
1 Sensitization
An Rh-negative woman's immune system is exposed to Rh-
positive blood, causing the production of antibodies.
2 Subsequent Pregnancies
Rh antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the red
blood cells of an Rh-positive fetus.
3 Fetal Complications
This can lead to severe anemia, hydrops fetalis, and even
fetal death.
ABO Incompatibility
Immune Response Blood Type Combinations
When an individual's blood Certain combinations, such as
type is incompatible with the A-type mother and B-type
blood type of a transfusion or baby, are more likely to cause
fetus, their immune system can issues.
react strongly.
Hemolytic Disease Management
ABO incompatibility can lead to Close monitoring and timely
the destruction of fetal red interventions are crucial to
blood cells, resulting in anemia prevent complications during
and jaundice. pregnancy and childbirth.
Risks of Incompatibility
Anemia Jaundice
Destruction of red blood cells can Buildup of bilirubin can cause
lead to fetal and neonatal anemia. jaundice in newborns.
Fetal Hydrops Fetal Death
Severe Rh incompatibility can In the most severe cases, Rh and
result in fluid buildup and organ ABO incompatibility can lead to
failure. fetal demise.
Fetal and Neonatal
Complications
Hemolytic Anemia
1 Destruction of fetal red blood cells can lead to severe
anemia.
Hyperbilirubinemia
2 Excess bilirubin buildup can cause jaundice and potential
brain damage.
Hydrops Fetalis
3 Severe fluid accumulation and organ failure can result in
fetal death.
Diagnosis and Management
Prenatal Screening Determining blood type and Rh
status early in pregnancy
Antibody Testing Monitoring for presence of Rh or
ABO antibodies
Fetal Monitoring Ultrasound and other tests to
assess fetal well-being
Interventions Anti-D immunoglobulin,
intrauterine transfusions, early
delivery
