Read the following statements regarding erythroblastosis foetalis: (A) It occurs due to Rh incompatibility between an Rh-negative mother and an Rh-positive foetus. (B) The maternal immune system is typically exposed to the foetal Rh antigen during the first trimester of the first pregnancy. (C) The condition leads to severe anaemia and jaundice in the affected baby. (D) It can be prevented by administering anti-Rh an

Step-by-step solution

Statement (A) is correct as erythroblastosis foetalis is a special case of Rh incompatibility between an Rh-negative mother and an Rh-positive foetus. Statement (B) is incorrect because the foetal and maternal blood are normally kept well separated by the placenta during pregnancy. Exposure to the Rh antigen typically occurs at the time of birth of the first child, not during the first trimester. Statement (C) is correct as the destruction of foetal red blood cells by maternal antibodies causes severe anaemia and j