Erythroblastosis Fetalis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Erythroblastosis fetalis is a condition that causes your unborn baby's red blood cells (RBCs) to break down. This may cause severe anemia (low RBC count). Anemia makes it difficult for the RBCs in your baby's blood to carry enough oxygen to his or her body. Your baby may need more tests or treatment after he or she is born. Go to all follow-up appointments so healthcare providers can help your baby grow and develop well.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• Your baby is having a seizure.

Return to the emergency department if:

• Your baby has jaundice that does not go away or gets worse.
• Your baby has shortness of breath.
• Your baby is very irritable, fussy, and has a high-pitched cry.
• Your baby looks very tired or weak, or sleeps more than usual.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• dexamethasone
• Clinacort
• Kenalog-40
• Dexamethasone Intensol
• Dxevo

View more treatment options

Call your baby's doctor if:

• Your baby develops a fever.
• Your baby develops jaundice.
• Your baby is not feeding well or is urinating less than before.
• You have breastfeeding problems.
• By his or her fourth day of life, your breastfeeding baby has either of the following:
  • Fewer than 4 to 6 wet diapers in a period of 24 hours.
  • Fewer than 3 to 4 bowel movements in a period of 24 hours.
• You have questions or concerns about your baby's condition or care.

Blood tests:

Your baby's bilirubin and RBC levels may need to be checked after he or she leaves the hospital. You may need to bring your baby to your pediatrician's office or a lab to have this done. Your baby's bilirubin level may reach a very high level after he or she leaves the hospital. If that happens, your pediatrician will have you take your baby back to the hospital for treatment.

Follow up with your baby's doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your child's visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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