Neonatal Isoerythrolysis
  by Robert N. Oglesby DVM

Immune mediated hemolytic anemia means the immune system is attacking the red blood cells and causing them to break down.

Neonatal isoerythrolysis is a form of immune mediated hemolytic anemia that effects foals during the first couple of days after birth. In this disease the break down, termed hemolysis, of the red blood cells occurs because they are attacked by specific anti-red blood cell antibodies that are ingested and absorbed from the mare's colostrum. As the red blood cells are broken down the foal becomes jaundiced and weakens and severe cases are life threatening. To treat this disease it is important to rule out other common causes of newborn foal diseases. To prevent this disease you have to understand why some mares form these anti-RBC antibodies. This article explains how it happens, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Also included is a discussion on preventing the problem in "at risk" pregnancies and laboratories that blood type.

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