Exxcellence pearls: anti-Lewis antibodies in pregnancy Flashcards
0
Q
What is the impact of anti-Lewis antibodies with regards to isosensitization or hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn? Why?
A
No clinical impact. They are IgM antibodies and do not cross the placenta due to their large size and are poorly expressed on fetal erythrocytes.
Transfusion can be safely given with cross-matched red cells. Transfused red cells will shed their Lewis antigens readily and assume the phenotype of the recipient after a few days.
1
Q
What is the other name for Lewis antibodies?
A
Lea and Leb
