ERYTHROBLASTOSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Erythroblastosis is a medical condition characterized by the presence of a high number of erythroblasts, which are developing red blood cells, in the bloodstream. It is also known as hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) or Rh disease. Erythroblastosis primarily occurs in infants when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and the fetus.
The condition arises when an Rh-negative mother is sensitized by exposure to Rh-positive blood during pregnancy or delivery, resulting in the production of antibodies against the Rh factor. These antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the red blood cells of the Rh-positive fetus. As a result, the fetus may experience hemolysis, where red blood cells are rapidly destroyed, leading to anemia and other complications.
If left untreated, erythroblastosis can have severe consequences for the fetus or newborn, including jaundice, organ damage, and even death. However, with advancements in medical interventions, such as anti-Rh immune globulin (RhoGAM) administration, the risk and severity of the condition have been significantly reduced.
The diagnosis of erythroblastosis is typically made through blood tests that measure the levels of antibodies and the presence of erythroblasts in the infant's blood. Treatment may include phototherapy to manage jaundice, blood transfusions to replace damaged red blood cells, and, in severe cases, exchange transfusions to remove the mother's antibodies from the infant's bloodstream.
Overall, early detection and appropriate medical interventions play a crucial role in managing erythroblastosis and ensuring the well-being of the newborn.
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The presence in considerable number of erythroblasts in the blood.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ERYTHROBLASTOSIS
Etymology of ERYTHROBLASTOSIS
The word "erythroblastosis" is derived from two Greek roots: "erythro-" meaning red or red blood cells, and "blastosis" meaning the condition of having an abnormal increase in immature or undeveloped cells. These roots combine to form "erythroblastosis", which refers to a medical condition characterized by the abnormal increase of erythroblasts, or immature red blood cells, in the bloodstream.
Similar spelling words for ERYTHROBLASTOSIS
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