Question
What is ABO hemolytic disease? Can complications be prevented before having a child?
Answer
ABO hemolytic disease refers to neonatal hemolytic disease caused by incompatibility between the ABO blood types of the mother and the fetus. It generally occurs when the mother has type O blood and the fetus has type A or B blood. By testing for antibody titers and regularly conducting ultrasound examinations during pregnancy, it is possible to detect the possibility of fetal hemolysis early and take appropriate measures. Although most ABO hemolytic disease symptoms are mild, severe hemolysis may lead to fetal anemia, enlargement of the heart, liver, and spleen, or even intrauterine fetal death. Effective prevention and management of neonatal hemolytic disease can be achieved through prenatal testing and careful observation after delivery.