Haemolytic disease of the newborn probably due to anti-f.

Abstract

A CASE is briefly presented, the chief feature of which is the production of anti-f held to be responsible for severe haemolytic disease of the newborn. Prior to her marriage the patient, Mrs. M. H., group O, Rh positive, most likely genotype R 1 R 1 (DC e /DC e), was transfused with Rh positive blood of unknown genotype. The first pregnancy ended in a full-term stillbirth but no autopsy was performed. The second pregnancy also terminated in a full-term stillborn due to hydrops. During this second delivery the patient received 500 c.c. of group O, Rh negative blood followed by a severe haemolytic reaction and renal shutdown. The patient recovered with the aid of an artificial kidney and received a total of 13 pints of blood—all compatible by an indirect Coombs cross-match.