Question

A 5-day-old baby has developed a yellowish appearance all over since birth. Examination reveals a hemolytic jaundice index of over 300. The mother has type A blood and the father has type O blood. The parents inquire about treatment methods and whether it will affect brain development.

Answer

The baby may be suffering from ABO or Rh hemolytic disease, with the severity of the condition depending on antigen strength, immune response, metabolic ability, and prenatal intervention. Rh hemolytic disease usually does not occur in the first pregnancy, while ABO hemolytic disease can. Symptoms include jaundice, anemia, and enlargement of the liver and spleen. Emergency treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent brain damage.