Successful use of maternal blood in the management of severe hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn due to anti-Kp(b).

BACKGROUND: The incidence of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) has decreased since the introduction of Rh immunoglobulin prophylaxis in Rh(D)-negative pregnant women. Thus, the relative incidence of rare alloantibody-related HDFN has increased. The lack of available maternally matched red blood cells for transfusion in these cases may create management difficulties. CASE: We report a case of anti-Kp(b) HDFN. Severe fetal anemia required intrauterine transfusion. Difficulty in obtaining Kp(b)-negative blood necessitated using the mother's donated RBCs.
CONCLUSION: Severe HDFN with rare antibodies can be managed successfully using maternal blood.