Anti-D-induced severe hemolytic disease of the newborn in an Omani newborn born a rhesus-positive mother

Abstract

Abstract Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) due to anti-D antibodies is a well-known complication of rhesus (Rh) incompatibility, encountered in D-positive babies born to alloimmunized D-negative mothers who have been sensitized during previous labor or abortion. Here, we report a case of significant hemolytic disease of the newborn due to the presence of anti-D antibodies in an Rh-positive baby born to an Rh-positive mother. The boy presented at day 1 of life with neonatal jaundice and required intensive phototherapy. His hemoglobin (Hb) concentration gradually dropped from 17 g/dL to 6.6 g/dL. The blood bank workup revealed O Rh-positive blood group, with a positive direct antiglobulin test (DAT) and confirmed the presence of anti-D antibodies. His mother was typed as O Rh positive, with a negative DAT and positive anti-D. He required two blood transfusions, and his Hb stabilized at the age of 7 weeks. Anti-D HDFN is a rare complication of Rh-positive and Rh-weak positive pregnancies. The lack of awareness of this phenomenon is often a source of confusion for clinicians. A literature review of similar cases and possible explanations are discussed.