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During pregnancy, you are not the only one who can be anemic. Your little one also has a chance of being anemic. This is called fetal anemia. It is not as simple as it sounds. Go on reading to know more about fetal anemia, its cause, and treatment.
Fetal anemia is a condition characterized by an inadequate number or amount of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the circulatory system of the fetus. Just like us adults, fetuses too use red blood cells to carry oxygen and the lack of production of the same or destruction of the red blood cells at a speed that is more than their production could, could cause a fetus to have anemia or low blood counts.
Just like an adult, the fetus also has a well-functioning circulatory system. Fetal anemia results in RBC (red Blood Cells) count to fall below the normal level. RBC carries oxygen to the cells and various organs of the developing fetus. Inadequate RBC means inadequate oxygen supply.
Just like other issues that affect the fetus, fetal anemia also varies from mild to severe. If the intensity of the anemia is high (though it very rarely happens), the fetal heart tries to deal with the insufficient quantity or quality of red blood cells by pumping harder. Thus, severe anemia can put the fetus at the risk of heart failure. The fetal anemia can also result in the abnormal amount of fluid build up in two or more body parts of the fetus. This is called hydrops. Severe swell ing interferes with the organ functions of the fetus. Untreated fetal anemia can lead to fetal death.
This condition happens, either, because of no sufficient RBC is produced by the fetus, or, because of the RBC is produced by the fetus is being destroyed faster than they are produced.
There are many issues,which lead to fetal anemia.
It is possible to identify a fetus that possesses a risk of developing fetal anemia. Screening for iso-immunization is a part of the routine prenatal lab tests. If the result is positive, tests are conducted to identify the antibody and to determine the antibody level (titer). The test can be repeated in every 3 to 4 weeks. Not all the maternal antibody gives rise to fetal anemia. With a help of a reference table, the risk of the antibody identified can be evaluated. If it possesses risk, to determine if the fetal RBC is able to produce the antigen, the father’s blood is examined. If the result is negative, theoretically, the fetus is safe. Of not, the fetus poses the risk of fetal anemia.
If the expecting mother is exposed to parvo virus, and if this is her first-time exposure, she should be closely monitored for the signs of fetal anemia.
Fetal anemia can be diagnosed:
The treatment choice depends on the cause and severity of the anemia. In the case of mild anemia, the baby will be closely monitored and delivered earlier (if possible).
Fetal transfusion is performed in the case of moderate to severe anemia. The RBC transfusion (Rh –ive blood, which is confirmed carry no infection) through the umbilical vein, which is assisted by an ultrasound is performed. The outcome of this treatment is excellent, though the transfusion is not performed after 34 weeks. There is a good chance of a vaginal delivery, if the baby tolerates the labor.
However, owing to the complication and the rarity of the condition, it is imperative that treatment be sought at a facility that handles such type of cases and carries a good record. The treatment must be performed under the supervision of an expert.
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