Rh-incompatible platelet transfusion therapy in cancer patients. A study of 30 cases.

The clinical histories of 30 consecutive Rh0D-negative oncology patients transfused with Rh0D-incompatible platelet concentrates were analyzed. No evidence of sensitization to the Rh0D antigen was found whatsoever, in spite of the large numbers of Rh0D-incompatible platelet transfusions given to these patients. The results of this work seem to indicate that patients with malignant diseases, who are undergoing various forms of antineoplastic therapy, are immunomyelosuppressed, and have severe thrombocytopenia, can safely receive platelets from Rh0D-positive donors without developing evidence of immunization to Rh0D antigens.