Donate
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Search in posts
Search in pages
acf-field
acf-field-group
library
family_stories

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

Ways You Can Help

Current Research and Clinical Trials

Understand the Terminology

Test your allo knowledge

Be an advocate for yourself, your patients, and your community by learning about this complex disease.

Education Is Key.

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

Start Here

Provider Resources.

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

Learn More

We have a growing resource library.

Cell-Free Fetal DNA (cffDNA) Testing

Cell-Free Fetal DNA (cffDNA) Testing

cffDNA testing is the safest option for determining if a fetus is antigen positive and at risk for HDFN. Women from around the world can have their blood drawn and shipped off to have the test done. Here is more information about cffDNA testing and the necessary forms for testing.

Read More
Necessary Laboratory Assessments for Infants Exposed to Maternal Alloantibodies

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.

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

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.

Read More
Read All

Allo Stories

Journey with our families as they go through pregnancy dealing with alloimmunization and HDFN.

See All Stories

The Allo Hope Foundation - Protecting babies, supporting families.

We Are Here To Help.

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.