RH ISOIMMUNIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Rh isoimmunization, also known as Rh incompatibility or Rh disease, is a condition that occurs when a pregnant woman with Rh-negative blood type is exposed to Rh-positive blood cells from her fetus. In this case, the woman's immune system recognizes the Rh antigens on the fetal blood cells as foreign and produces antibodies to attack and destroy them.
During pregnancy, small amounts of the baby's blood may mix with the mother's blood. This mixing can happen during pregnancy-related events such as amniocentesis, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or delivery. If the mother has been sensitized to Rh-positive blood cells, her immune system will respond by producing antibodies during the initial exposure.
Rh isoimmunization can cause serious complications for the fetus, especially in subsequent pregnancies. The antibodies produced by the mother can cross the placenta and attack the baby's red blood cells, leading to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). This can result in anemia, jaundice, organ damage, and even fetal death.
To prevent Rh isoimmunization, an Rh-negative woman is typically given an injection of Rh immunoglobulin, also known as Rhogam, around the 28th week of pregnancy and within 72 hours after any event that may lead to exposure to Rh-positive blood cells. Rh immunoglobulin helps prevent the mother's immune system from producing antibodies against the Rh factor.
In cases of severe Rh isoimmunization, treatment may involve close monitoring of the fetal well-being, blood transfusions, or early delivery to prevent further complications. Overall, early detection and appropriate management are crucial in minimizing the risks associated with Rh isoimmunization.
Common Misspellings for RH ISOIMMUNIZATION
- eh isoimmunization
- dh isoimmunization
- fh isoimmunization
- th isoimmunization
- 5h isoimmunization
- 4h isoimmunization
- rg isoimmunization
- rb isoimmunization
- rn isoimmunization
- rj isoimmunization
- ru isoimmunization
- ry isoimmunization
- rh usoimmunization
- rh jsoimmunization
- rh ksoimmunization
- rh osoimmunization
- rh 9soimmunization
- rh 8soimmunization
- rh iaoimmunization
- rh izoimmunization
Etymology of RH ISOIMMUNIZATION
The word "Rh Isoimmunization" is derived from:
- Rh: This abbreviation stands for "Rhesus", which refers to the Rhesus factor, also known as the Rh factor. The Rhesus factor is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. It was named after the Rhesus monkey, in which the factor was first discovered.
- Iso: This prefix is derived from the Greek word "ísos" meaning "equal" or "same". In medical terminology, it is commonly used to indicate "equal" or "similar".
- Immunization: This word is derived from the Latin word "immunis" meaning "exempt" or "protected". It refers to the process of making an individual immune to a specific disease or condition through the administration of a vaccine or immunoglobulins.
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