Resolution by adsorption-elution method and transfusion support to a patient of thalassemia intermedia with anti-c alloantibody

Abstract

Transfusion support remains the mainstay of supportive treatment for thalassemia patients in spite of recent advances such as stem cell transplantation and gene therapy. Thalassemia intermedia (TI) patients generally do not require regular transfusion support but can develop severe anemia, requiring frequent transfusion during the period of stress such as infection and pregnancy. The genetic disparity of red blood cell antigens between donor and recipient leads to sensitization and resulting development of alloantibodies. Red cell alloimmunization leads to incompatiblity and delays in issue of compatible units. Majority of these alloantibodies were against Rh and Kell blood group. Here we report a case of 28 years old TI who developed anti-c following multiple transfusions since the age of 18 years. The patient was transfused with c antigen-negative, A positive anti-human globulin cross-matched blood unit. Thus, we emphasize to include antibody screening routinely in multi-transfused patients and provision of at least Rh phenotype-matched blood to prevent further alloimmunization.