Fetal and neonatal cytopenias: what have we learned?

Overview

Rh disease has largely disappeared as a result of prophylaxis with anti-D. However, the cases that remain are more complicated with a combination of novel challenges with regard to in utero management with transfusion and its effects on the course of the neonate, both early and late. Thrombocytopenia in the neonate can be severe and recurrent if it is a result of alloimmunization. Newer techniques in the laboratory have improved the security of diagnosis. Antenatal management of affected fetuses with treatment administered to the mother is now well established although studies are ongoing. Neutropenia is a complication of pre-eclampsia; the mechanism is still not well understood.