Preventing RhD haemolytic disease of the newborn

The current guidelines can be made effective by audit of their use, and the introduction of routine prophylaxis will reduce rhesus disease. Since a shortage of anti-D immunoglobulin makes widespread application of routine antenatal prophylaxis unlikely until the 21st century, the proper use of updated guidelines with frequent reminders and education of those entering obstetric care is still the way forward. Apr 1, 1998 EDITOR-Van Dijk's editorial on preventing RhD haemolytic disease of the newborn and a consensus conference on anti-D prophylaxis last year clarify the need for continued reliance on donors' blood to prevent rhesus isoimmunisation. 1 2 I am concerned about the lack of consumer involvement in and awareness of the programme and the proposed extension to the antenatal period for women without obvious sensitising stimuli.