Abstract

PIP: The occurrence of Rh immunization in a 38-day-old fetus is reported. Because of systemic lupus erythematosus and the presence of a large cervical myoma, hysterectomy was performed. The uterus was divided and the embryo was obtained within intact membranes. Blood tests revealed Rh immunization of the fetus. As far as is known, this appears to be the youngest fetus in which Rh antigens have been shown. The results raise the question of whether prophylactic treatment of Rh-negative women with anti-D serum should be given in cases of early abortion.