Question
The newborn has been diagnosed with neonatal hemolytic disease after 72 hours of birth. If blood transfusion therapy is required, when is the best time to perform it?
Answer
Neonatal hemolytic disease usually arises from factors such as incompatibility between the fetal and maternal blood types, especially when the mother’s blood type is O, the risk of hemolysis is higher. The purpose of blood transfusion therapy is to remove sensitized red blood cells and antibodies, prevent further hemolysis; reduce the concentration of serum unconjugated bilirubin, prevent the occurrence of bilirubin encephalopathy; and correct anemia, prevent heart failure. It is recommended to follow the professional advice of doctors for treatment. Generally speaking, the timing of blood transfusion therapy should be determined based on the specific condition of the newborn and the doctor’s assessment.