THE UNIQUE FETAL RED CELL AND ITS FUNCTION

The red blood cells of the human fetus differ in many major respects from the red cells of the normal adult. These differences appear admirably suited for the acquisition, transport, and release of oxygen in the low oxygen atmosphere of intrauterine existence. These same differences appear to confer...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Pediatrics (Evanston) 1973-03, Vol.51 (3), p.494-500
Main Author: Oski, Frank A.
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:The red blood cells of the human fetus differ in many major respects from the red cells of the normal adult. These differences appear admirably suited for the acquisition, transport, and release of oxygen in the low oxygen atmosphere of intrauterine existence. These same differences appear to confer a handicap to the cell in the extrauterine environment, particularly under conditions of hypoxic stress. The rapid replacement of these cells by artificial means, such as early exchange transfusion, may offer an advantage to the newborn infant in certain clinical situations.
ISSN:0031-4005
1098-4275
DOI:10.1542/peds.51.3.494