An anemic fetus at 27 weeks with MCA-PSV above 1.5 MoM requires intrauterine transfusion. Which specification of donor blood is correct for this procedure?
- A Irradiated, CMV-negative, O-negative packed red cells, crossmatched against the mother, infused into the umbilical vein ✓
- B Fresh whole blood, group O positive, crossmatched against the father
- C Maternal whole blood collected immediately before the procedure
- D Washed maternal platelets infused into the fetal peritoneal cavity
Correct answer: A. Irradiated, CMV-negative, O-negative packed red cells, crossmatched against the mother, infused into the umbilical vein
Explanation
Intrauterine transfusion uses O-negative, cytomegalovirus-negative, irradiated packed red cells crossmatched against the mother, delivered preferably into the umbilical vein under ultrasound guidance, with hematocrit adjusted to about 75 to 85 percent. Irradiation prevents graft versus host disease in the fetus. Maternal blood is unsuitable because her plasma contains the offending antibody, and the intraperitoneal route is reserved mainly for very early gestations where intravascular access is impossible.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.