RED-CELL AUTOANTIBODY PRODUCTION IN-UTERO - A CASE-REPORT

Background: Autoantibody production by the fetus is thought to be extr emely unlikely. Only one possible case of in utero autoantibody produc tion against red cells by the fetus has previously been described. Stu dy Design and Methods: A case of apparent red cell IgG autoantibody pr oduction in utero is reported. Results: This was established by a posi tive direct antiglobulin test in a newborn infant without evidence of maternal alloantibodies or autoantibodies. There was no evidence of cl inically significant hemolysis at the infant's birth. After 6 weeks, h is direct antiglobulin test remained strongly positive. The infant thr ived without evidence of hemolysis, and after 6 months the direct anti globulin test was negative. Conclusion: The production of autoantibodi es to red cells in utero is possible, though rare. This did not result in apparent hemolysis in this patient.