Alloimmune cytopenia part I hemolytic disease of the fetus and the newborn [HDFN]

ABSTRACT

One of the most dramatic advances of modern medicine has been the discovery and development of diagnostic methods, treatment and prophylaxis of hemolytic disease of the fetus and the newbom [HDFN]. In a few decades, the field has progressed from a complete lack of understanding of the condition to a detailed grasp and understanding of the molecular and immunological bases of the disease. These advances have in turn culminated in the development of prophylaxis and the near total elimination of its morbidity. In this review, we shall briefly cover the history and progress of developments of this condition and presents the new concepts in the classification and nomenclature of alloimmune cytopenia of pregnancy. We will also provide a short account on advances in the pathophysiology, treatment and prevention of this condition. A review of developments in management will be discussed together with highlights of health care issues of women with alloimmune cytopenia