NCIt definition : A preparation of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against Rho(D) antigen (anti-RhD;
anti-Rho(D); anti-Rhesus factor; anti-Rh; anti-D), manufactured from pools of human
donor plasma containing anti-D, that can be used in the prevention of an immune response
and suppression of Rhesus (Rh) immunization to Rho(D)-positive blood in people with
an Rho(D)-negative blood type during pregnancy or transfusion with Rho(D)-positive
red blood cells (RBCs). Upon intravenous or intramuscular administration, human Rho(D)
immune globulin provides Rho(D) antibodies against Rho(D) antigens which suppresses
Rh isoimmunization. By providing sufficient anti-Rho(D) antibodies, human anti-Rho(D)
immune globulin accelerates the phagocytosis of Rho(D)-positive RBCs, which clears
these RBCs from the circulation. This prevents the recognition of Rho(D)-positive
RBCs by the immune system and the subsequent formation of anti-Rho(D) antibodies in
individuals with Rh-negative blood after exposure to Rh-positive RBCs. This prevents
the production of alloantibodies to paternally inherited RhD antigen expressed on
fetal erythrocytes in Rho-negative mothers and prevents hemolytic diseases in newborns.
Rho(D) immune globulin increases platelet counts and reduces bleeding in Rho-positive
patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) by inhibiting autoantibody-mediated
platelet clearance. A Rh-negative person can be exposed to Rh-positive blood through
a mismatched blood transfusion or during pregnancy when the baby has the opposite
blood type.;