Dose of anti-D immunoglobulin (in microgram) to Rhnegative (post paum) mother: September 2012
**Core Concept**
The core concept being tested is the prophylactic use of **anti-D immunoglobulin** to prevent **RhD alloimmunization** in Rh-negative mothers who deliver Rh-positive babies. This is crucial to prevent **hemolytic disease of the newborn** in future pregnancies.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The standard dose of anti-D immunoglobulin for postpartum prophylaxis is 300 micrograms. This dose is sufficient to neutralize any fetal-maternal hemorrhage that may have occurred during delivery, thereby preventing the mother's immune system from mounting an immune response against Rh-positive red blood cells.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Insufficient dose, may not prevent alloimmunization.
**Option B:** Incorrect dose, not standard for postpartum prophylaxis.
**Option D:** Excessive dose, not necessary for routine postpartum prophylaxis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember, the standard postpartum dose of anti-D immunoglobulin is 300 micrograms, which should be administered within 72 hours of delivery to an Rh-negative mother who has delivered an Rh-positive baby.
**Correct Answer:** Correct Answer: C. 300 micrograms