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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.

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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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We have a growing resource library.

Necessary and Optional Laboratory Assessments for the Mother, Father, and Fetus

There are a variety of laboratory tests that should be offered to the alloimmunized patient. It is important to test both the mother and the father during an alloimmunized pregnancy. By testing both parents, it is possible to get a more accurate view of the risk of HDFN.

Necessary Laboratory Assessments for Infants Exposed to Maternal Alloantibodies

There are a variety of laboratory tests that are necessary for infants born to alloimmunized mothers. It is important to confirm or rule out the presence of HDFN. Infants who are affected by HDFN require weekly follow up lab assessment for hemoglobin/hematocrit until ~12 weeks of age or until weekly counts are rising for 2-3 consecutive weeks.

Common Alloimmunization Misconceptions

Outdated misconceptions about alloimmunization are abundant. In fact, multiple patients report being told one of these common alloimmunization misconceptions: a first sensitized pregnancy won’t be affected, if titers are low the infant will not be affected by HDFN, an alloimmunized woman cannot have more biological children, or an anemic infant with HDFN needs iron. Can you guess which of these statements are misconceptions and which are true?

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The Allo Hope Foundation - Protecting babies, supporting families.

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Whether it’s a question, a need for resources, prayer/emotional support, or something else, we love to hear from you. Contact us via email or social media.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to prevent any harm, stillbirth or infant death caused by alloimmunization and HDFN. We are dedicated to providing patient advocacy, support and education while promoting research and improving healthcare practices for the condition.