What blood component is primarily affected by hemolytic disease of the newborn?

Prepare for the AMT Medical Laboratory Scientist Exam with engaging quizzes and practice questions. Utilize interactive tools to understand concepts, uncover key topics, and master your test! Get exam-ready!

Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) primarily affects red blood cells. This condition occurs when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and her baby, most commonly due to Rh factor differences. When an Rh-negative mother has an Rh-positive fetus, her immune system may produce antibodies against the fetal red blood cells, leading to their destruction or hemolysis.

As a result, the newborn can suffer from anemia, jaundice, and other complications due to the significant reduction in red blood cell count. The focus on red blood cell destruction explains why this component is predominantly affected in cases of hemolytic disease of the newborn. Understanding this allows for better prenatal care and management of the condition to prevent adverse outcomes for the newborn. Other components like white blood cells, platelets, and plasma proteins are not primarily involved in this specific pathology.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy