Massive foetomaternal haemorrhage resulting in severe neonatal anaemia

ABSTRACT

A case of massive foetomaternal haemorrhage [FMH] is presented which resulted in diminished foetal movements and severe neonatal anaemia. An emergency caesarian section was performed in a 37 weeks pregnant woman with poor foetal activity and non-reactive foetal heart rate of unexplained etiology. A baby boy with severe anaemia [Hb 5.7 g/dl] having no signs of haemolysis was delivered. The blood film of the baby showed normoblastaemia and reticulocytosis. Kliehaur test on mother revealed 4% foetal red cells, confirming massive FMH. The baby required repeated packed red cell transfusions during his stay in the hospital. He was discharged symptom free with a Hb of 13.4 g/dl. In this case the baby had a good clinical course. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention are mandatory in cases of massive FMH for good prognosis