HDFN Due to Other Antibodies

This version of the course is no longer available.
Need multiple seats for your university or lab? Get a quote
The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (retired 4/6/2020). Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (retired 4/6/2020) (online CE course)
HDFN Due to Other Antibodies

After anti-D, the antibodies that are most often associated with HDFN include:

  • anti-K
  • anti-c
  • anti-E
  • anti-Fya (rarely)
  • anti-Jka (rarely)
  • anti-M,-N,-S,-s,-U (all rarely)

Of these antibodies, anti-K, anti-c, and anti-E are more common causes. Anti-K is frequently associated with a severe form of HDFN due to the ability of the antibody to suppress fetal erythropoiesis in addition to causing hemolysis. Anti-c has also been known to cause severe HDFN.

Antibodies to low frequency antigens have also been known to cause HDFN, albeit rarely. Examples include anti-Mia, -Dia, -Wra and anti-Rd. In such cases the maternal antibody screen is usually negative and the only unexpected test is a positive DAT on the newborn.

Although it is frequently present in the serum of pregnant women, anti-Lea is not generally associated with HDFN for two reasons; anti-Lea is most often IgM and therefore it does not cross the placenta. In addition, the Lewis system antigens are not well developed at birth.