Erythroblastosis fetalis

Definition:

A condition that develops in an unborn infant when antibodies, usually caused by Rh incompatibility between the mother's blood type and the baby's, attack the red blood cells of the fetus. In some instances this can lead to death of the baby. It can be treated in utero (before birth) by medication or intrauterine transfusion. When the child is born, signs may include an enlarged liver and/or spleen, generalized edema (swelling, anasarca), jaundice, and anemia. After birth, depending on the severity, a transfusion may be performed.

See also Transfusion reaction.