Rhesus D and Anti-D

Fetal Rhesus D screening and Anti-D administration

Fetal Rhesus D screening

Fetal Rhesus D screening is now available from Genomic Diagnostics and can be collected at Dorevitch Pathology. This test is desgned designed to support targeted antenatal RhD-Immunoglobulin immunoprophylaxis for pregnant women.

• Fetal Rhesus D Screening – genomic diagnostics

Rhesus D (Rh D) negative women are at risk of alloimmunisation resulting in the development of Anti-D antibodies. These are able to cross the placenta causing haemolysis to such an extent that the fetus/ newborn is at risk of serious morbidity and mortality.

The administration of passive Anti-D at times of actual and potential feto-maternal haemorrhage (FMH) and routine prophylaxis has been shown to reduce the rate of alloimmunisation.

Guidelines have been established for the recommended use of Anti-D in pregnancy and postpartum, these recommendations are endorsed by RANZCOG, Australian Red Cross Blood Services, National Health and Medical Research Council, and Australasian/New Zealand Blood Transfusions Guidelines.

Anti-D guidelines

• Anti-RH-D Immunoglobulin – Antenatal and Postnatal Administration Guideline
• Anti-D Pathway in the community 
• Anti D Immunoglobulin Patient Consent, Order and Administration Forms