What are the causes of hemolytic anemia in newborns?
Jul 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, neonatal hemolytic anemia may be caused by factors such as ABO blood group incompatibility, Rh blood group incompatibility, infection, abnormal red blood cell membrane, or red blood cell enzyme deficiencies. If any abnormalities are detected, timely medical attention is recommended. In daily life, it is important to keep the newborn warm and properly cared for to avoid infections, and to closely monitor for signs of skin jaundice and changes in mental status.
Generally, hemolytic anemia in newborns may be caused by factors such as ABO blood group incompatibility, Rh blood group incompatibility, infections, abnormalities in red blood cell membranes, or deficiencies in red blood cell enzymes. If any abnormalities are detected, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. ABO Blood Group Incompatibility
When there is ABO blood group incompatibility between the mother and the newborn, antibodies from the mother's body enter the newborn's circulation and destroy the newborn's red blood cells, causing hemolysis. Close monitoring of neonatal jaundice and anemia is necessary. If symptoms are mild, phototherapy may be used to promote bilirubin metabolism. If anemia is significant, treatment should be administered under medical guidance.
2. Rh Blood Group Incompatibility
When the mother is Rh-negative and the newborn is Rh-positive, the mother produces anti-Rh antibodies that attack the newborn's red blood cells, causing hemolysis. Typically, the condition is more severe than ABO incompatibility. Immediately after birth, the newborn's blood type and hemolysis-related indicators should be tested. If necessary, Rh immunoglobulin should be administered under medical guidance to prevent severe hemolysis.
3. Infections
Infections caused by bacteria or viruses in newborns can damage red blood cells, increasing their destruction and causing hemolytic anemia, often accompanied by fever and jaundice. Patients should receive treatment with medications such as penicillin sodium for injection, cefotaxime sodium for injection, or ganciclovir injection under medical supervision to control the infection.
4. Red Blood Cell Membrane Abnormalities
Structural abnormalities of the red blood cell membrane make red blood cells prone to destruction, resulting in hemolysis and anemia, which may be accompanied by splenomegaly. Folic acid tablets should be used under medical guidance to prevent worsening anemia. Severe cases may require blood transfusions, and splenectomy evaluation may be necessary.
5. Red Blood Cell Enzyme Deficiencies
Deficiencies of enzymes within red blood cells make them susceptible to oxidative damage and destruction, leading to hemolysis, which may worsen after exposure to substances such as fava beans. Exposure to fava beans and related oxidative drugs should be avoided in newborns. Under medical guidance, medications such as vitamin C tablets, coenzyme Q10 capsules, and folic acid tablets may be used to protect red blood cells.
In daily life, it is important to keep the newborn warm and well-cared for to avoid infections. Closely monitor skin jaundice and the newborn's mental status, and seek medical attention promptly if abnormalities are detected. Follow medical advice for regular follow-up tests, including routine blood tests.
