Question

A 19-year-old female (type O) gave birth to her first child (type AB). Approximately 48 hours after delivery, the nursing staff noticed that the newborn was slightly yellow in the skin and eyes. The serum bilirubin level was slightly elevated. A blood sample was obtained and the DAT was negative. The peripheral blood smear shows evidence of spherocytosis and nucleated RBCs.

Questions 1. What is the newborn’s most likely diagnosis?

2. State the basis of the diagnosis.

3. State the cause of the diagnosis

4. What tests can be performed to validate the diagnosis? Include expected results.

5. Is the patient a candidate for RhIG? If so, are any additional tests necessary? Additional Testing: A rosette screen performed on BW yields a positive result. A Kleihauer-Betke stain is performed on BW’s postpartum specimen to quantify the amount of fetal-maternal hemorrhage. There were 19 fetal cells counted in a total of 2000 cells.

6. Why was the rosette screen performed?

7. Why was the Kleihauer-Betke test performed?

8. How many doses of RhIG should BW receive?

Answer 1