During hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN),why does the newborn develop hyperbilirubinemia after birth,but not in utero?
A) Because excretion of unconjugated bilirubin through the placenta into the mother's circulation is no longer possible
B) Because hemoglobin does not breakdown into bilirubin in the intrauterine environment
C) Because the liver of the fetus is too immature to conjugate bilirubin from a lipid-soluble to water-soluble form
D) Because the destruction of erythrocytes producing bilirubin is greater after birth

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

After birth, the newborn's liver must process bilirubin independently, but in utero, the placenta helps excrete bilirubin into the mother's circulation, preventing hyperbilirubinemia.

During Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN),why Does the Newborn