P50-P61: Haemorrhagic and haematological disorders of fetus and newborn

P55: Haemolytic disease of fetus and newborn

Haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn, a group of conditions, is a blood-related issue that occurs when a mother's and baby's blood types are incompatible. It begins when the mother's body forms antibodies against the fetus's red blood cells and destroys them, leading to haemolysis, which is the breakdown of red blood cells. Common signs of this condition include yellowing of the skin and whites of the eye (jaundice), anemia, and a high bilirubin level that could potentially lead to brain damage in severe cases. The disease can be severe leading to fetal death in some cases or very mild, causing no issues at all. It commonly affects the body's blood and immune systems. Factors like the mother's previous pregnancies and blood transfusions can potentially contribute to the risk of development.