What is Alloimmunization and how does it cause HDFN?

Maternal alloimmunization occurs when a woman makes red blood cell antibodies as a result of foreign blood mixing. These antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the unborn child, a disease called hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). HDFN can have devastating consequences including anemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and death. With close monitoring and timely treatment, babies with HDFN have a very high survival rate. Unfortunately, due to the rarity of alloimmunization and the variation in care practices around the world, well-managed pregnancies and ideal infant outcomes are not universal - but they can be!

The Allo Hope Foundation was founded to provide educational materials, family and provider support, and to promote research related to alloimmunization and HDFN.

About Us

Education Is Key.

Are you a patient just learning about your antibodies? Start here for an introduction to what is happening in your body.

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Provider Resources.

Are you a provider looking for the most current, evidence-based guidelines for the management of alloimmunized pregnancies?

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Ways You Can Help

Current Research and Clinical Trials

Understand The Terminology

Test Your Allo Knowledge

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We have a growing resource library.

Participate in Research

The Allo Hope Foundation and AllStripes are partnering to create a database that will enable multiple Alloimmunization & HDFN research projects! We’re looking for patients/families willing to contribute their de-identified medical records to make this effort as strong as possible. Your medical journey can accelerate the development of new treatment and monitoring methods for alloimmunization & HDFN. Because these are rare conditions, researchers need more information directly from patients and their families to fully understand the condition.

Prenatal Decision Tree

The Prenatal Decision Tree can be used as a step by step guide through the proper course of prenatal care for alloimmunized patients according to current medical literature. If your care plan differs from this, discuss it with your physicians and seek a second opinion if needed. For additional references and a more in-depth explanation of the information in this tree, please see our Providers page.

History of Alloimmunization and Treatment Options

A history of alloimmunization from the 1600s to present. Discover the advances in testing, treatment, and outcomes for patients with Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn (HDFN) over the past 400 years.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this website is to provide general education, access to resources, and relevant literature. This website does not provide specific medical advice or recommendations for individual patients and is not a substitute for speaking with qualified healthcare professionals. The Allo Hope Foundation strongly recommends that care and treatment related to alloimmunization and HDFN be made in consultation with your physicians who are familiar with your individual health situation.

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We Are Here To Help.

We want to connect you with the latest alloimmunization & HDFN information. Let us know what you need as a member of the alloimmunized community. Do you need additional resources or information? Would you like copies of our point of care materials and patient handouts? Email us and let us know how we can serve you. You can also join our quarterly newsletter to stay informed on current developments in the alloimmunization & HDFN world.
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