Introduction: rhesus alloimmunisation remains a common disease in Colombia in spite of universal immunisation having been implemented with immunoglobulin anti-D (Rho) for all susceptible pregnancies. Rh alloimmunisation is a condition requiring risk factors to be identified, all pregnancies to be suitably screened and timely referral to a maternal foetal medicine unit ensured to minimise foetal complications and provide foetal intervention as necessary. Objective: this review was aimed at summarising the available data to provide the reader with tools helping to improve medical care by reviewing the exactitude of screening methods and early diagnosis and the effectiveness of non-invasive and invasive methods of treatment. Methodology: the literature in PubMed, EBSCO, Ovid and Pro Quest databases was reviewed. Original papers, reviews, guidelines and bulletins published between 2000 and 2008 were included. Results: antibody titres and middle cerebral artery Doppler were seen to be the screening tools usually used for identifying haemolytic anaemia in the foetus and neonates in Rh alloimmunisation. Rh alloimmunization treatment included close follow-up, intrauterine transfusion and timely delivery and prevention of Rh alloimmunisation by immunoglobulin anti-D (Rho). Conclusion: knowledge of the disease will lead to early recognition of the risk factors and early diagnosis for identifying foetuses at risk which are susceptible to intrauterine therapy.
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