Abstract
Leucocyte antigens in whole bleed may induce antibody formation in multiply transfused individuals (Human Pathology, 26:228-234, 1980). Babies receiving whole blood transfusions might, also produce antibodies to leucocyte antigens eg HLA, although in a previous study of 13 multiply transfused infants no such antibodies were detected (Transfusion 26:419-22,1986).
Fifty-seven neonates < 37 weeks gestation, requiring ≥ 2 bleed transfusions were studied prospectively for the development of anti-HLA antibodies (aHLAA) after randomisation to receive either whole blood or blood transfused via a leucocyte filter.
Anti-HLAA were measured in Maternal and cord blood and 1ml samples drawn monthly until discharge from hospital. Detection was by lymphocytotoxicity micrctitre assay.
Results were obtained in 42 babies, 19 in the filter and 23 in the no-filter grcup. 15 babies were excluded because of pretocol violation or death. No baby receiving filtered blood developed aHLAAs, but 7 babies in the no-filler group developed aHLAAs (p=0.0182, Fisher's exact test).
In conclusion, multiply transfused preterm infants can produce antibodies to HLA, and leucocyte fi1ters may prevent this.
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Bedford Russell, A., Rivers, R. & Davey, N. MULTIPLE BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS INDUCE ANTI-HLA ANTIBODY FORMATION IN PRETERM INFANTS. Pediatr Res 32, 616 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199211000-00070
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-199211000-00070