H Kumar1, D K Mishra2, R S Sarkar3, M Jaiprakash4. 1. Associate Professor, Department of Transfusion Medicine, AFMC, Pune. 2. Classified Specialist (Pathology and Haematology), AHDC(R&R), Delhi Cantt. 3. Cl Spl (Path & Haem) MH Roorkee. 4. Professor and Head, Department of Transfusion Medicine, AFMC, Pune.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Rh blood system is one of the most polymorphic and immunogenic systems known to humans. The expression of Rh blood group antigen is complex. The Rh D antigen is the most important of the antigens that constitute the Rh antigen system. In most cases, D antigen can easily be detected. However, due to variability of expression, weak forms antigen are encountered. The reactivity of weak D with antisera is variable and presents as a problem in blood banking. METHODS: A retrospective analysis for a five-year period was done. Blood samples that were negative for Rh D by immediate spin tube method were tested for weak D antigen by additional lab tests. RESULT: Of 34932 serial Rh grouping tests done in our Blood Bank, the incidence of weak D Rh antigen was 0.189%. All these were confirmed by the antiglobulin test. CONCLUSION: These patients present as a problem for the blood banker and a curiosity to the clinician. Although uncommon, all health care workers should be aware of this entity to avoid anti D alloimmunisation.
BACKGROUND: The Rh blood system is one of the most polymorphic and immunogenic systems known to humans. The expression of Rh blood group antigen is complex. The Rh D antigen is the most important of the antigens that constitute the Rh antigen system. In most cases, D antigen can easily be detected. However, due to variability of expression, weak forms antigen are encountered. The reactivity of weak D with antisera is variable and presents as a problem in blood banking. METHODS: A retrospective analysis for a five-year period was done. Blood samples that were negative for Rh D by immediate spin tube method were tested for weak D antigen by additional lab tests. RESULT: Of 34932 serial Rh grouping tests done in our Blood Bank, the incidence of weak D Rh antigen was 0.189%. All these were confirmed by the antiglobulin test. CONCLUSION: These patients present as a problem for the blood banker and a curiosity to the clinician. Although uncommon, all health care workers should be aware of this entity to avoid anti D alloimmunisation.
Authors: F F Wagner; A Frohmajer; B Ladewig; N I Eicher; C B Lonicer; T H Müller; M H Siegel; W A Flegel Journal: Blood Date: 2000-04-15 Impact factor: 22.113
Authors: Smita Narayanan; Lamar Galloway; Akihisa Nonoyama; German F Leparc; Luis H Garcia-Rubio; Robert L Potter Journal: Transfusion Date: 2002-05 Impact factor: 3.157