Question
The newborn has been diagnosed with neonatal hemolytic disease after 72 hours of birth. If blood exchange therapy is required, when is the best time to perform it?
Answer
Neonatal hemolytic disease is a relatively rare condition, often caused by factors such as incompatibility between the fetus and the mother’s blood type, especially when the mother’s blood type is O. The purpose of blood exchange therapy is to remove sensitized red blood cells and their antibodies from the body to prevent further hemolysis; reduce the concentration of unconjugated bilirubin in the serum to prevent bilirubin encephalopathy; and correct anemia to avoid heart failure. It is recommended that parents follow the professional advice of doctors for timely treatment.