Genetic condition awaiting consideration - Rhesus Disease Haemolytic (disease of the newborn)
Rhesus disease is a condition that affects the foetus and new born where antibodies in a pregnant woman’s blood destroy her baby’s blood cells.
Rhesus disease occurs when the mother has rhesus negative blood group and her baby has rhesus positive blood group and the mother has been previously sensitised to rhesus positive blood.
If an unborn baby develops rhesus disease the treatment type will depend on the severity of the condition. In severe cases a blood transfusion may be given to the unborn child. After delivery the child is likely to be admitted to the neonatal unit where further treatment includes phototherapy, blood transfusions and antibody infusions to prevent the red blood cells from being destroyed.
If rhesus is left untreated, the unborn baby can have foetal heart failure, fluid retention, swelling and in the most severe cases the baby may be still born.
In moderate cases, rhesus disease can lead to learning difficulties, deafness, blindness and cerebal palsy.
Have your say on conditions awaiting consideration
If you have any feedback on the genetic conditions awaiting consideration by the HFEA, send us an email and we will discuss your comments at the next Licence Committee.
Email: pgd@hfea.gov.uk
Page last updated: 16 July 2012