ABO Hemolytic Disease Of The Newborn Research Articles

The Diagnostic Potential of the L Score for ABO Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of the L score, a novel scoring system, in distinguishing between ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (ABO-HDN) and non-hemolytic disease of newborn hyperbilirubinemia (NHDNH). Methods A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the L score in distinguishing between ABO-HDN (n = 118) and NHDNH (n = 213). Blood routine examination results were collected, and relevant statistical analyses were performed to identify clinically significant parameters. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the relationship between the L score and the development of these conditions, considering relevant variables. Results Our study identified the red blood cell count, mean corpuscular volume, red blood cell distribution width—coefficient of variation, and red blood cell distribution width—standard deviation as independent risk factors for distinguishing ABO-HDN from other high bilirubinemia conditions (P < 0.001). The L score demonstrated superior predictive performance for ABO-HDN, exhibiting an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.746, with an optimal cutoff value of − 3.0816. The RBC-L score exhibited superior predictive performance (z: 5.596, P < 0.0001) compared to the single-factor RBC indicator, indicating its efficacy in accurately identifying the desired outcome. Conclusion The L score represents a valuable tool for predicting neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and hemolytic disease, facilitating differentiation, and guiding early intervention for improved outcomes. Further research is warranted to validate and expand the applicability of the L score in clinical practice.

Risk factors for readmission for hyperbilirubinemia in neonates with ABO hemolytic disease: a single-center retrospective cohort study

Objective ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (ABO-HDN) is a major risk factor for severe hyperbilirubinemia, a common readmission reason for newborns. In this study, we aimed to assess the risk factors for readmission associated with hyperbilirubinemia in neonates with ABO-HDN. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted including newborns with gestational age ≥35 weeks and ABO-HDN in 2018. Among 291 newborns, 36 were readmitted for hyperbilirubinemia and defined as the readmission group. The remaining 255 cases were used as a control group. We then performed between-group comparisons of clinical conditions associated with hyperbilirubinemia. Logistic regression was used to select risk predictors of readmission associated with hyperbilirubinemia due to ABO-HDN. Results Baseline characteristics were similar between both groups (p > .05, respectively). However, total serum bilirubin (TSB) before initiating phototherapy was significantly higher in the readmission group when compared with that in the control group at 0–24 h, 24–48 h, and 48–72 h (183.70 µmol/L [interquartile range (IQR) 161.18–196.48] vs. 150.35 µmol/L [IQR 131.73–175.38], p = .005; 229.90 µmol/L [IQR 212.45–284.30] vs. 212.50 µmol/L [IQR 197.85–230.28], p = .026; 268.10 µmol/L [IQR 257.70–279.05] vs. 249.50 µmol/L [IQR 236.80–268.70], p = .045, respectively). The age of initiation of phototherapy in the readmission group was significantly lower than that in control group (30.0 h [IQR 18.0–49.00] vs. 42.0 h [IQR 23.0–61.0], p = .012). The rate of rebound hyperbilirubinemia after the first phototherapy treatment was significantly higher in the readmission group compared to that in the control group (9 [25%] vs. 13 [5.1%], p = .000), and the rate of positive direct antiglobulin testing was significantly higher than that in control group (17 [47.2%] vs. 74 [29.0%], p = .027). Logistic regression analysis showed that the age of initiation of photography, TSB level before the first phototherapy, and rebound hyperbilirubinemia after first phototherapy were independent risk factors for readmission in newborns with hyperbilirubinemia associated with ABO-HDN. Conclusions Earlier age of phototherapy initiation, higher TSB levels at the time of initiating phototherapy and rebound hyperbilirubinemia after the first phototherapy treatment may increase the risk of readmission for hyperbilirubinemia in neonates with ABO-HDN. These factors should be considered in discharge planning and follow-up for newborns with ABO-HDN associated hyperbilirubinemia.

Clinical value of combination detection of direct antiglobulin test and serum albumin globulin ratio in severe hyperbilirubinemia caused by ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn

Background To explore of a combination of antiglobulin test(DAT) and albumin globulin ratio(AGR) could predict the severity of ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn(ABO-HDN). Methods The measurement of DAT, AGR and combination detection of DAT and AGR was done to predict severe ABO-HDN hyperbilirubinemia in 270 full-term infants based on whether the infants received transfusions of blood components. The infants were divided into three groups according to the results of DAT and ARG and compared the differences of phototherapy day and hospitalization day of the three groups. Results Of the 270 cases enrolled in this study, 69 infants were DAT positive. Peak total bilirubin, AGR, and positive DAT were independently associated with the need for blood components transfusion. ROC curve analysis for blood components transfusion showed that DAT cutoff value >± with a sensitivity of 39.4% and a specificity of 83.9%, AGR cutoff value <2.05 with a sensitivity of 54.1% and a specificity of 85.7%, and combination detection of DAT and ARG with a sensitivity of 62.1% and a specificity of 91.2%. The AUCs for DAT, AGR, and combination detection of DAT and AGR were .621, .740, and .750 respectively. The phototherapy day and hospitalization day were significantly longer in group of AGR <2.05 and DAT >± than that of a group of AGR <2.05 and group of DAT >±. Conclusions DAT and ARG could be early predictors for the severity ABO-HDN hyperbilirubinemia and combination detection of DAT and AGR could further increase its predictive value.

ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn: a need for clarity and consistency in diagnosis.

The diagnosis of ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (ABO HDN) has been the subject of considerable debate and clinical confusion. Its use as an overarching default diagnosis for hyperbilirubinemia in all ABO incompatible neonates regardless of serological findings is problematic and lacks diagnostic precision. Data on hemolysis indexed by carbon monoxide (CO) levels in expired air (ETCOc) and blood (COHbc) support an essential role for a positive direct antiglobulin test (DAT) in making a more precise diagnosis of ABO HDN. A working definition that includes ABO incompatibility, significant neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, and a positive DAT is needed to gain clarity and consistency in the diagnosis of ABO HDN. Absent a positive DAT, the diagnosis of ABO HDN is suspect. Instead, a negative DAT in a severely hyperbilirubinemic ABO incompatible neonate should trigger an exhaustive search for an alternative cause, a search that may require the use of targeted gene panels.

A cross-sectional study of haemolytic disease of the newborn in Uganda.

Haemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) is an immune haemolytic anaemia from maternal alloantibodies. Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) prophylaxis can prevent alloimmunization to the D antigen. However, RhIg is not universally available in Uganda. ABO incompatibility also causes HDN. We determined the prevalence of HDN among newborn infants with jaundice in Uganda. We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. Infants aged 0-14 days with neonatal jaundice (or total bilirubin >50 μmol/L) were enrolled. Clinical evaluation and laboratory testing, including ABO, RhD typing and maternal antibody screen, were performed. A total of 466 babies were enrolled. The mean (SD) age was 3.4 (1.5) days. Of newborn babies with jaundice, 17.2% (80/466) had HDN. Babies with HDN had lower haemoglobin (SD); 15.7 (2.7) compared with those without HDN; 16.4 (2.4) g/dL, p=0.016; and a higher bilirubin (interquartile range); 241 (200-318) compared with those without HDN; 219 (191-263) μmol/L, p < 0.001. One baby had anti-D HDN, while 46/466 had HDN from an ABO incompatibility (anti-A 43.5% and anti-B 56.5%); 82% of babies with HDN also had suspected neonatal sepsis or birth asphyxia. About 79.2% (57/72) of mothers did not have ABO/Rh blood group performed antenatally. All infants with HDN survived except one. Among newborn infants with jaundice, HDN is not rare. The majority is due to ABO HDN affecting group A and group B babies equally. Ensuring routine ABO/Rh grouping for all pregnant women is an area for improvement.

Impact of National Clinical Practice Guidelines on Exchange Transfusion for Severe Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia in Singapore

Aims: To review the incidence of double volume exchange transfusion for severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in infants ≥35 weeks’ gestational age before and after implementation of National Clinical Practice Guidelines (NCPGNJ), analyze etiologies for severe hyperbilirubinemia, readmission rates for phototherapy and neurodevelopmental outcomes up to 2 years.&#x0D; Study Design: Retrospective study&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore, between January 2016 and December 2021.&#x0D; Methodology: National Clinical Practice Guidelines on Evaluation and Management of Neonatal Jaundice (NCPGNJ) was implemented in January 2019. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of neonates in our center who underwent double volume exchange transfusion for severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia before and after implementation of the national clinical practice guidelines.&#x0D; Results: Overall, 56 infants underwent double volume exchange transfusion for severe hyperbilirubinemia during the study period. There was a decline in the incidence of exchange transfusion from 107 per 100 000 live births in epoch 1 (2016-2018) to 61 per 100 000 live births in epoch 2 (2019-2021). There was a steady decline in overall phototherapy rates (p=0.06), readmission rates for phototherapy (p=0.04) and number of neonates needing exchange transfusion (p=0.25). ABO-hemolytic disease of the newborn was the most common etiology. One infant had delayed presentation of severe hyperbilirubinemia and eventually developed cerebral palsy. The rest of the infants had normal neurodevelopmental and audiological assessments at follow-up.&#x0D; Conclusion: The evidence-based National Clinical Practice Guidelines (NCPGNJ) has reduced the incidence of exchange transfusion. It provides a unified framework for all healthcare professionals who manage neonates with hyperbilirubinemia in different healthcare settings.

Application of IgG antibody titer and subtype in diagnosis and severity assessment of hemolytic disease of the newborn.

BackgroundTo analyze the effect of different times of pregnancy of type O pregnant women on the occurrence of ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (ABO-HDN).MethodsFrom December 2018 to December 2021, 725 pregnant women with O blood group (husbands with non-O blood group) who met the inclusion criteria were collected. There were 116 cases of ABO-HDN, which were summarized and analyzed. The pregnant women were divided into primigravida and non-primigravida groups. The influence of the number of pregnancies on the occurrence of ABO-HDN was compared, and the antibody titer of pregnant women with type O blood was monitored. The relationship between antibody titer and HDN in pregnant women was analyzed by hemolysis test and indirect bilirubin concentration.ResultsIn the primigravida group, 0 patients with HDN had a titer ≤1:64, 8 (8/26) had a titer of 1:128, 9 (9/20) had a titer of 1:256, 2 (2/4) had a titer of 1:512, and 2 (2/3) had a titer >1:512. In the non-primigravida group, there were 0 cases with a titer ≤1:64, 32 cases (32/78) with a titer of 1:128, and 26 cases (26/46) with a titer of 1:256. The number of cases of ABO incompatibility in maternal and infant groups with different titers of IgG anti-A (B) antibody were 377 cases in the <1:64 group, 130 cases in the 1:64 group, 104 cases in the 1:128 group, 66 cases in the 1:256 group, 32 cases in the 1:512 group, and 16 cases in the >1:512 group. The positive rates of ABO-HDN were 0.0% (0/0), 0.0% (0/0), 38.5% (40/104), 53.0% (35/66), 81.3% (26/32) and 93.8% (15/16), respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).ConclusionsThe occurrence of ABO-HDN was not significantly related to the blood type of the pregnant woman’s husband. Therefore, in order to reduce the degree of hemolysis and avoid the occurrence of bilirubin encephalopathy or even death, pregnant women with antibody titer >1:64 in second or subsequent pregnancies should be closely monitored.

Intravenous Immunoglobulin Use in Hemolytic Disease Due to ABO Incompatibility to Prevent Exchange Transfusion.

IntroductionIntravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been widely used to treat the hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). Although it has been shown that IVIG treatment reduces the duration of phototherapy and hospitalization, the use of IVIG in hemolytic disease due to ABO incompatibility has been controversial in recent years. This study aimed to investigate the role of IVIG in the prevention of exchange transfusion in infants with ABO HDN who presented with bilirubin levels at or above the level of exchange transfusion.Materials and MethodsThis study evaluated the data of infants with ABO HDN in the Turkish Neonatal Jaundice Online Registry. The infants with ABO HDN who met the total serum bilirubin level inclusion criteria (within 2–3 mg/dL of exchange transfusion or even above exchange transfusion level) were included in the study according to the guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Turkish Neonatal Society. All patients were managed according to the unit protocols recommended by these guidelines and received light-emitting diode (LED) phototherapy. Infants who only received LED phototherapy, and who received one dose of IVIG with LED phototherapy were compared.ResultsDuring the study period, 531 term infants were included in the study according to inclusion criteria. There were 408 cases in the phototherapy-only group, and 123 cases in the IVIG group. The demographic findings and the mean bilirubin and reticulocyte levels at admission were similar between the groups (p > 0.05), whereas the mean hemoglobin level was slightly lower in the IVIG group (p = 0.037). The mean age at admission was earlier, the need for exchange transfusion was higher, and the duration of phototherapy was longer in the IVIG group (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). The rate of re-hospitalization and acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE) was higher in the IVIG group (p < 0.001 and p = 0.01, respectively).ConclusionIn this study, we determined that one dose of IVIG did not prevent an exchange transfusion nor decrease the duration of phototherapy in infants, who had bilirubin levels near or at exchange transfusion level, with hemolytic disease due to ABO incompatibility.

ABO haemolytic disease of the newborn: Improved prediction by novel integration of causative and protective factors in newborn and mother.

Prediction of haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn (HDFN) caused by maternal anti-A/-B enables timely therapy, thereby preventing the development of kernicterus spectrum disorder. However, previous efforts to establish accurate prediction methods have been only modestly successful. In a case-control study, we examined 76 samples from mothers and 76 samples from their newborns; 38 with and 38 without haemolysis. The IgG subclass profile of maternal anti-A and anti-B was determined by flow cytometry. Samples from newborns were genetically analysed for the A2 subgroup, secretor and FcγRIIa receptor alleles. Surprisingly, we found a correlation between the newborn secretor allele and haemolysis (p=0.034). No correlation was found for FcγRIIa alleles. The A2 subgroup was found only in newborns without haemolysis. Unexpectedly, different reaction patterns were found for maternal anti-A and anti-B; consequently, the results were treated separately. For the prediction of haemolysis in A-newborns, the maternal IgG1 subclass determination resulted in an accuracy of 83% at birth. For B-newborns, an accuracy of 91% was achieved by the maternal IgG2 subclass determination. We improved the prediction of ABO-HDFN by characterizing maternal anti-A and anti-B by flow cytometry and we presented genetic traits in newborns with correlation to haemolysis. We propose a new understanding of A- and B-substances as immunogens that enhance the maternal immune response and protect the newborn, and we suggest that the development of ABO-HDFN is different when caused by maternal anti-A compared to maternal anti-B.

Intravenous immunoglobulin G in the treatment of ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn during the early neonatal period at a tertiary academic hospital: a retrospective study

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) in infants with ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN).MethodsInfants with moderate-to-severe ABO HDN during early neonatal period (<7 days) at our hospital in 2017 were included in this retrospective study. Patients treated with IVIG and phototherapy were classified as the IVIG group, and those who only received phototherapy were classified as the phototherapy only group.ResultsForty-six patients were classified into the IVIG group and 68 other patients were classified into the phototherapy only group. There was no significant difference in duration of phototherapy, hospitalization periods, needs for exchange transfusion, transfusions, and incidence of bilirubin-induced neurological sequelae between these two groups (P = 0.20, 0.27, 0.65, 0.47, 0.78, respectively).ConclusionIt seems unnecessary to expose neonates to IVIG in moderate-to-severe ABO HDN when the available data show no appreciable benefits.

Silica microbeads capture fetal nucleated red blood cells for noninvasive prenatal testing of fetal ABO genotype.

ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (ABO-HDN), which may cause neonatal jaundice and polycythemia, or even stillbirth or neonatal death, is widespread in China. Prenatal testing for the fetal ABO blood group can reduce unnecessary concerns or ensure prompt treatment. Herein, we presented a method to employ high-density silica microbeads (SiO2 MBs) for capturing fetal nucleated red blood cells (fnRBCs) in maternal peripheral blood, and we detected the ABO genotype of the fetus using these captured cells. We evaluated 52 patients using the SiO2 MBs. Among 26 pregnant women with type O blood, 8 (30.8%) of the fetuses had type A blood, 5 (19.2%) had type B blood, and 13 (50%) had type O blood. SRY genes were detected in all 27 male fetuses. This study represents a simple and effective method for noninvasive prenatal detection of the fetal ABO genotype. We believe that this method has great potential for noninvasive prenatal testing of the fetal Rh blood group and other fetal diseases as well.

Study of Gilbert's Syndrome-Associated UGT1A1 Polymorphism in Jaundiced Neonates of ABO Incompatibility Hemolysis Disease.

This study aimed to assess the probable relationship between icter in neonates with ABO incompatibility hemolysis and UGT1A1 gene polymorphism. There were 65 ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) neonates of full term in the study group and 82 non-ABO HDN neonates of full term in the compared group. We tested the UGT1A1 gene mutation of neonates of ABO HDN and non-ABO HDN. We compared the incidence of hyperbilirubinemia between neonates with and without UGT1A1 mutations in the ABO HDN and non-ABO HDN, to determine the relationship between icter in neonates with ABO HDN and UGT1A1 gene polymorphism. SPSS 13.0 were used to analyze those two groups' data. There was statistically significant difference of the serum bilirubin level between the Gly71Arg homozygous and no mutation group in the ABO HDN patients (p < 0.05). When hyperbilirubinemia was defined as serum bilirubin concentration >342 μmol/L, the incidence of hyperbilirubinemia between patients of UGT1A1 and non-UGT1A1 mutations in the ABO HDN group was significantly different (p < 0.05). But in the non-ABO HDN group, no significant difference was found. Individuals with Gly71Arg homozygous contributed to their hyperbilirubinemia in ABO HDN patients.

Examining the utility of the CD64 index compared with other conventional indices for early diagnosis of neonatal infection

As specific clinical manifestations and detection tools for early neonatal infections are lacking, early detection and treatment are ongoing challenges. The present study aimed to investigate the role and clinical significance of the CD64 index in comparison with conventional examination indices (WBC, PCT and CRP) for the early diagnosis of neonatal infection. Of 74 in-patient newborns, non-sepsis (non-specific infection but free of sepsis), sepsis and control [newborns with ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn (ABOHDN) but without infection] groups involved 32, 16 and 26 cases, respectively. Peripheral blood WBC, PCT, CRP and CD64 indices were acquired for all groups. The sepsis group showed significantly higher WBC, PCT and CRP levels than the control group. Compared with the non-sepsis group, the sepsis group demonstrated significant increases in PCT but not in WBC or CRP. Compared with the control group, the non-sepsis and sepsis groups had higher CD64 indices. Combined, compared with the WBC, PCT and CRP indices, the CD64 index is unique in its capacity to diagnose neonatal infections early. The CD64 index combined with other conventional indices may lay a basis for the future early diagnosis and effective treatment of neonatal infections.

Survey on the prevention and incidence of haemolytic disease of the newborn in Italy.

In 2010, the Italian Society of Immunohaematology and Transfusion Medicine (SIMTI) carried out a survey of the incidence of haemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) and the prevention of HDN caused by anti-Rh(D) in Italian Transfusion Structures (TS). A questionnaire divided into the following five sections was administered: (i) types of services provided and maintenance of legally required registers, (ii) immunoprophylaxis (IP), (iii) red cell typing and searches for irregular antibodies, (iv) evaluation of foetal-maternal haemorrhage (FMH), and (v) incidence of HDN in 2010. Of the 280 TS sent the questionnaire, 176 (63%) replied. A HDN register was available in 55.5% of the TS (n =91). Immunoprophylaxis with a dose of anti-D IgG was given to all Rh(D) negative and Rh(D) variant puerpera with Rh(D) positive newborns: in more than 93% of cases the dose was between 1,500 IU (300 μg) and 1,250 IU (250 μg). Antenatal IP between the 25(th) and 28(th) week was proposed by 42 TS (26%). Seventy percent of the TS (n =115) did not make any evaluation of FMH. The number of births surveyed in 2010 was 203,384, the number of Rh(D) negative pregnancies was 13,569, while anti-D antibodies were present in 245 pregnancies. There were 111 cases of HDN due to anti Rh(D) incompatibility and in 40 of these, intrauterine transfusion (n =8) or exchange transfusion (n =32) was necessary. In 94 cases HDN was due to other irregular antibodies: in 4 of these cases intrauterine transfusion was needed and in 11 other recourse was made of exchange transfusion. Finally, there were 1,456 newborns with ABO HDN of whom 13 underwent exchange transfusion. The data collected give a picture of the incidence of HDN in Italy and of the methods of managing IP and could form the basis for an update of the SIMTI recommendations on the management and prevention of this disease.

Research on the relevance between different results of hemolysis detection tests and serum bilirubin levels of hemolytic disease of the newborn

Objective To study the relevance between different results of three hemolysis detection tests and serum bilirubin levels of ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn(ABO-HDN).Methods Serological hemolysis three tests (direct anti-human globulin test,free antibody test,antibody release test),maternal anti-A (B)IgG antibodies,serum bilirubin were examined in 85 cases of ABO-HDN.Results There were significant differences in levels of total serum bilirubin (TSB) between groups of DAT-positive and groups of DAT-negative (P ＜ 0.05,or P ＜ 0.01).There weren' t significants difference between groups of DAT-positive or groups of DAT-negative in levels of total serum bilirubin(P ＞ 0.05).There wasn' t significant difference between maternal antibodies titer and levels of total serum bilirubin (P ＞ 0.05).Conclusion When DAT is positive,the serum bilirubin level was significantly increased,and maternal antibodies titer couldn' t show severity of ABO-HDN.It could be helpfull for the clinical treatment of ABO-HDN. Key words: ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn; direct anti-human globulin test; Free antibody test; Antibody release test; Serum bilirubin; Anti-A (B) IgG antibody

Serological profile and hemolytic disease in term neonates with ABO incompatibility

Background Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) due toABO blood type incompatibility is one of the most commoncause of neonatal hyperbilirubunemia that potentially leads tobilirubin encephalopathy. Data on ABO-hemolytic disease of thenewborn (ABO-HDN), especially regarding umbilical cord bloodserological profile, are limited.Objective To identify the serological profile and hemolytic disease in term neonates with ABO incompatibility.Methods This was a cross-sectional descriptive study, conductedat RSIA Budi Kemuliaan Jakarta.Results We found 68 healthy term neonates with ABOincompatibility, nine of them had positive direct antiglobulintest (OAT) result, and 38 subjects had a positive result onOAT with elution method. The highest titer of IgG was 1:8.Hyperbilirubinemia was found in 30 ( 44%) subjects, andABO-HDN was diagnosed in 28 (41 %) subjects. Within thepositive OAT group, eight out of nine subjects had sufferedfrom hyperbilirubinemia and ABO-HDN. Meanwhile, withinthe positive OAT with elution method group; 24 subjects hadsuffered from hyperbilirubinemia with 23 of them having ABOHDN. Based on the chi-square analysis; those with positive OAT with elution method had 3.2 times higher risk of suffering from ABO-HDN. Furthermore, there was a 3.6 times higher risk ofsufferring from hyperbilirubinemia.Conclusion In healthy term neonates with ABO incompatibility,the incidence of ABO-HDN is 41%. OAT serological examinationwith elution method is better than OAT in assessing riskfor hyperbilirubinemia and ABO-HDN.

Intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) therapy for significant hyperbilirubinemia in ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn

Although intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) therapy has been reported in hyperbilirubinemia of Rh hemolytic disease, its use in ABO hemolytic disease has been reported in only a few studies. In our institute we have observed that almost 30% of babies with hyperbilirubinemia due to ABO hemolytic disease required exchange transfusion. To determine whether administration of IVIG to newborns with significant hyperbilirubinemia due to ABO hemolytic disease would reduce the need for exchange transfusion as a primary goal in these babies. This was a prospective study involving all newborns with significant hyperbilirubinemia due to direct Coombs-positive ABO hemolytic disease. All healthy term babies with ABO hemolytic disease with positive direct Coombs test in the period between 2000 and 2002 were identified. Significant hyperbilirubinemia was defined as hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy and/or rising by 8.5 micromol/l per h (0.5 mg/dl per h) or more to require exchange transfusion. Babies were randomly assigned into two groups: group 1 (study group) received phototherapy plus IVIG (500 mg/kg); and group 2 (control group) received phototherapy alone. Exchange transfusion was carried out in any group if at any time the bilirubin level reached 340 micromol/l (20 mg/dl) or more, or rose by 8.5 micromol/l per h (0.5 mg/dl per h) in group 2. A total of 112 babies were enrolled over 2 years, 56 in each group. Exchange transfusion was carried out in four babies in the study group, while 16 babies in the control group required exchange. Late anemia was not of concern in either group. No adverse effects related to IVIG administration were recorded. Administration of IVIG to newborns with significant hyperbilirubinemia due to ABO hemolytic disease with positive direct Coomb's test reduces the need for exchange transfusion without producing immediate adverse effects.

Intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) therapy for significant hyperbilirubinemia in ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn

Background: Although intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIG) therapy has been reported in hyperbilirubinemia of Rh hemolytic disease, its use in ABO hemolytic disease has been reported in only a few studies. In our institute we have observed that almost 30% of babies with hyperbilirubinemia due to ABO hemolytic disease required exchange transfusion. Objective: To determine whether administration of IVIG to newborns with significant hyperbilirubinemia due to ABO hemolytic disease would reduce the need for exchange transfusion as a primary goal in these babies. Design: This was a prospective study involving all newborns with significant hyperbilirubinemia due to direct Coombs-positive ABO hemolytic disease. Methods: All healthy term babies with ABO hemolytic disease with positive direct Coombs test in the period between 2000 and 2002 were identified. Significant hyperbilirubinemia was defined as hyperbilirubinemia requiring phototherapy and/or rising by 8.5 μmol/l per h (0.5 mg/dl per h) or more to require exchange transfusion. Babies were randomly assigned into two groups: group 1 (study group) received phototherapy plus IVIG (500 mg/kg); and group 2 (control group) received phototherapy alone. Exchange transfusion was carried out in any group if at any time the bilirubin level reached 340 μmol/l (20 mg/dl) or more, or rose by 8.5 μmol/l per h (0.5 mg/dl per h) in group 2. Results: A total of 112 babies were enrolled over 2 years, 56 in each group. Exchange transfusion was carried out in four babies in the study group, while 16 babies in the control group required exchange. Late anemia was not of concern in either group. No adverse effects related to IVIG administration were recorded. Conclusion: Administration of IVIG to newborns with significant hyperbilirubinemia due to ABO hemolytic disease with positive direct Coomb's test reduces the need for exchange transfusion without producing immediate adverse effects.

Haemolytic disease of newborn.

Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) occurs due to maternal IgG antibodies crossing the placenta thereby producing hemolysis mainly due to Rh, ABO and Kell groups. A systematic approach to the Rh HDN involves an obstetric history of previous isoimmunized baby, timing and regular monitoring of maternal Rh antibodies and pigment assay of amniotic fluid. Timely decision regarding in utero transfusion and early termination of pregnancy based on the maternal monitoring has radically improved the outcome of these babies. Antenatal prophylaxis with anti D has resulted in great reduction in the magnitude of Rh problem. The fetal blood sampling and in-utero intravenous transfusions has made it possible for almost 100% survival of isoimmunized pregnancies without hydrops. Alternative methods--IVIG and plasma exchange are still of limited application. ABO HDN though common is not a serious form of disease and dose not warrants invasive antenatal monitoring. Anti-Kell is found in patients having received multiple transfusions and the rapid progress of hemolysis in them may not allow such systematic follow up as in Rh HDN.

The role of maternal anti-A and anti-B antibody titers in predicting ABO hemolytic disease of the newborn

A study has been conducted on 268 blood group O delivering mothers and their related blood group A and B newborn infants. It reveaLed that the capability of mothers 1o produce anti-A and anti-B antibodies did not dffir significantly from each other (p > 0.05) . Ninety four (35.1Vo) ofthe newborns developed potentionaljaundice while the others did not. To predict the birth ofa baby with potential jaundice, a maternal anti-A or anti-B antibody titer of > l/256 was considered to be the cut-offpoint with a sensitivity and specificity of S3.33VoandTS.2lVorespectivelyandapositivepredictivevalueofTg.2TVoandanegativepredictivevalueof 17.57Va. Ifthematemal anti-Aoranti-Bantibody titerwas>l/256theriskforgivingbirthofababywithpotentialjaundicerosesignificantlylStimescompared to those with titers of < 1/256 (OR 18,64 ; CI 95Vo = 6.18-56.18).