Isoantibodies to inherited types of β-lipoproteins (Ag) and immunoglobulins (Gm and Inv): Serological and clinical aspects

Abstract

Children transfused with whole blood or plasma can develop isoantibodies against immunoglobulin (Gm and Inv) and β-lipoprotein (Ag) genetic factors. Immunization against these factors is common in children with thalassemia, but is also observed in children with hemophilia. Transfusion of incompatible Gm plasma results in only mild reactions. More severe reactions are observed when incompatible Ag plasma is transfused. When the clinical manifestations of thalassemia are severe, anti-Gm and/or anti-Ag antibodies are found more frequently. More than 50 per cent of the children with these antibodies have been transfused within the first year of life. Splenectomy results in the lowering of the titer or the disappearance of anti-Gm or anti-Ag antibodies. The presence of anti-Ag isoprecipitins is associated with an increased case fatality rate in children with thalassemia.