What percentage of Rh-D negative patients who do not receive Rh immunoglobulin (RhIG) will become sensitized?

In cases involving Rh-D negative patients who do not receive Rh immunoglobulin (RhIG), the percentage of those who will become sensitized can be linked to several clinical studies and data collected over time.

Sensitization occurs when an Rh-D negative individual is exposed to Rh-D positive blood, which can happen during pregnancy, childbirth, or even through transfusion. Without the prophylactic use of RhIG, which is designed to prevent the development of antibodies against Rh-D positive red blood cells, a notable percentage of Rh-D negative individuals will develop sensitization.

Research has shown that approximately 15% of Rh-D negative patients who are not given RhIG will become sensitized following exposure. This figure is significant because it underscores the importance of administering RhIG to Rh-D negative patients to prevent sensitization and subsequent complications in future pregnancies. Thus, the correct response reflects the well-documented risk of sensitization in this demographic without the protective measure of RhIG.