P56.0: Hydrops fetalis due to isoimmunization

Antibodies attacking the child's red blood cells have seriously damaged its health.

Blood is made up of a liquid part and different blood cells, among other things. The blood cells include the red blood cells, the white blood cells and the platelets. The red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. Red blood cells contain the red hemoglobin that gives blood its color. This pigment is important for carrying oxygen in the blood.

In red blood cells there are particular characteristics. These characteristics are used as the basis for differentiating between blood groups. For example, blood groups A, B, AB and O can be identified, as well as the Rhesus positive and Rhesus negative properties.

If the mother and the unborn child have different blood groups or factors, the mother's body can produce antibodies. This is the case, for example, if the mother is rhesus negative and the unborn child is rhesus positive. The mother's antibodies attack the child's red blood cells. In certain cases these antibodies can get to the child and damage its red blood cells. If the red blood cells are damaged, they will increasingly be broken down in the body. There is then too little red blood pigment in the blood, and not enough oxygen can be transported. This can seriously damage the child's health.

Fluid then accumulates around the child's heart and lungs, or in its abdomen. Fluid can also accumulate in the skin. The child may move less than usual in the womb. The child's heart may also beat unusually quickly. Newborn babies can have breathing problems. The skin may look pale or yellowish.